As Typhoon Krathon approaches Taiwan, authorities have initiated mandatory evacuations affecting millions in anticipation of severe weather conditions. Nationwide the central government has issued an order that companies are to remain closed nationwide, and Wednesday will be a no-school day for millions of children.

The Hualien County government reported the evacuation of over 3,000 individuals from 13 townships deemed vulnerable to landslides, with Xiulin Township alone accounting for 1,302 of those displaced. Additional evacuations were ordered in Tainan and the southern county of Pingtung, highlighting the widespread concern as the storm looms, as reported by Focus Taiwan (CNA). 

With Krathon already unleashing substantial rainfall—over 250 mm in mountainous regions along the Southern Cross-Island Highway in just 24 hours—forecasts predict that total cumulative rainfall could soar to 900 mm.

In light of this, the Highway Bureau has urged residents in landslide-prone areas, particularly those with health vulnerabilities, to evacuate immediately.

In response to the typhoon’s imminent arrival, a series of precautionary measures have been implemented across the island. Key roadways, including the Heren-Chongde section of Suhua Highway and various routes in Hualien County, have been temporarily closed to safeguard against hazardous conditions. Additionally, express train services on the North-Link Line have been suspended, further emphasising the disruption caused by the impending storm.

Government offices and educational institutions across Taiwan will shut down on Wednesday, October 2, coinciding with similar closures in several cities and counties, including Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung. This marks the second "typhoon day" for many areas, which allows workers a reprieve amid the storm's fury. Financial institutions, including Taiwan’s stock market, will also remain closed.

As of late Tuesday, October 1, Krathon was situated approximately 180 km south-southwest of Kaohsiung, moving at a sluggish pace of six kilometres per hour. The storm is characterised by maximum sustained winds of 198 km per hour and gusts reaching 245 kph, presenting a significant threat to safety and infrastructure.

President Lai Ching-te has underscored the importance of disaster prevention, asserting that proactive measures are essential to mitigate potential damage. During a video conference with local government leaders, he reiterated that ensuring public safety takes precedence over disaster relief efforts.

Krathon, which has been named after a type of fruit by Thailand, is known as Julian in the Philippines, adding an international dimension to its impact. With its path still uncertain, the coming hours will be critical as Taiwan prepares for the challenges posed by this powerful storm.