Typhoon Kratkhon.Photo: focustaiwan.tw
Taipei, 6 October. According to Taiwan’s Central Emergency Operations Centre, agricultural losses due to Typhoon Kratong have reached an astounding NT$390 million, equivalent to approximately US$12.06 million. This announcement came as a result of updated statistics released on Sunday morning, according to Focustaiwan.
Aftermath of the typhoon: casualties and damage
According to the Interagency Operations Centre, the typhoon has caused serious consequences: 4 people died, 719 people were injured, and one person is still missing. As of Sunday, 9497 claims for damages have been filed.
Restoration of power supply
During the storms, 436,634 households lost power, but by Sunday morning, only 1,106 households in Kaohsiung were still without electricity. At the same time, all 608,073 households that suffered a water supply cut-off have already had their water supply restored.
Losses in agriculture
Noting the losses in the agricultural sector, the Ministry of Agriculture reports that the damage caused by the typhoon totalled NT$387.16 million. The worst-hit areas are Kaohsiung City, where losses are estimated at NT$238.6 million (62% of the total), and Pindong County, with NT$88.9 million (23% of the total). The most vulnerable crops were bananas, guavas, jujube, papaya and wax apples.
Impact on transport infrastructure
In addition to agriculture, the typhoon also affected transport infrastructure. The Ministry of Transport and Communications reported that a section of Provincial Highway 2A in Jinshan District, which had been closed due to a landslide, has reopened to two-way traffic on one lane. As additional debris is cleared, it is planned to fully reopen both lanes by Monday morning.
Typhoon Krachon is yet another testament to the destructive power of natural disasters that regularly hit Taiwan. The authorities are calling for caution and preparedness for further consequences.
