Typhoon Gaemi, a powerful storm with a devastating impact, made landfall on China’s southeastern coast on Thursday evening, following its destructive path across Taiwan and the Philippines. This blog post provides a detailed overview of the typhoon’s impact, including its effects on Taiwan and the Philippines, and the response in China.
1. Typhoon Gaemi’s Path and Impact: From Taiwan to China
Typhoon Gaemi, also known as Carina in the Philippines, has caused significant damage across several regions. Here’s a breakdown of its path and impact:
- Landfall in Taiwan: The typhoon struck Taiwan on Wednesday night, bringing with it heavy rains, landslides, and flooding. Authorities reported three deaths and around 380 injuries. Taiwan’s Central News Agency detailed that a 78-year-old man was killed by a mudslide, and two others died before the storm made landfall.
- Current Situation in Taiwan: Offices and schools in Taiwan remain closed as people are advised to stay indoors. The typhoon prompted the cancellation of air force drills off Taiwan’s east coast, reflecting the serious nature of the storm.
- China’s Coastal Impact: As Gaemi made landfall in Fujian province, over 240,000 residents were evacuated. The storm led to the cancellation of flights, trains, and ferry services. The Xinhua News Agency reported significant disruptions and expected continued heavy rains over the coming days, including in Beijing.
Read More: Typhoon Gaemi: Path and Predictions
2. Devastation in the Philippines: Floods, Landslides, and Missing Persons
In the Philippines, Typhoon Gaemi’s impact has been severe, though it did not make landfall. The storm intensified seasonal monsoon rains, leading to significant casualties and damage:
- Death Toll: The typhoon has been linked to 22 deaths, primarily due to drownings and landslides. Three people are currently missing, according to local police reports.
- Oil Tanker Incident: A major incident involved the sinking of an oil tanker, MT Terra Nova, near Limay town in Bataan province. The vessel, carrying approximately 1.4 million litres (370,000 gallons) of industrial fuel oil, sank early Thursday. Rescuers managed to save 15 of the 16 crew members. However, the rough seas have hampered efforts to contain a potential oil spill.
- Government Response: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged rapid delivery of aid to rural villages cut off by the storm. The President’s statement emphasised the urgency of providing food and essential supplies to isolated areas.
Read More: Philippines Braces for Aftermath of Typhoon Gaemi
3. Taiwan’s Typhoon Preparedness: A Look at the Island’s Response
Taiwan’s experience with typhoons has led to robust preparedness systems. However, the unique challenges posed by Gaemi underscore the difficulties even well-prepared regions face:
- Emergency Measures: Taiwan had closed offices and schools as part of its emergency response. The island’s regular typhoon preparedness includes upgraded warning systems, though the dense population and challenging topography still lead to significant impacts.
- Economic and Infrastructure Disruptions: The typhoon’s impact on infrastructure and the economy highlights the vulnerability of high-tech economies to natural disasters. The cancellation of military exercises and public disruptions reflect the wide-reaching effects of the storm.
Read More: Taiwan’s Typhoon Preparedness and Challenges
4. China’s Response to Typhoon Gaemi: Evacuations and Infrastructure Damage
China has faced substantial disruptions due to Typhoon Gaemi. The response and ongoing challenges are as follows:
- Evacuations and Disruptions: Over 240,000 people were evacuated from Fujian province. The typhoon caused widespread cancellations of flights, trains, and ferry services, affecting daily life and economic activities.
- Continued Weather Impact: The storm is expected to weaken but will continue to bring heavy rains to inland areas, including Beijing. Authorities are on high alert for potential flooding and other related issues.
Read More: China’s Typhoon Response and Ongoing Challenges
5. Humanitarian Concerns and International Aid Efforts
The aftermath of Typhoon Gaemi has highlighted significant humanitarian needs and the role of international aid:
- Immediate Needs: In both Taiwan and the Philippines, there is an urgent need for humanitarian aid, including food, medical supplies, and support for displaced persons.
- International Support: Various international agencies and governments are expected to provide aid and assistance to the affected regions. Efforts are focused on both immediate relief and long-term recovery.
Read More: Humanitarian Efforts in Typhoon Gaemi’s Wake
Conclusion
Typhoon Gaemi’s path of destruction has affected millions across Taiwan, the Philippines, and China. With significant casualties, infrastructure damage, and ongoing weather challenges, the response and recovery efforts are critical. This event underscores the importance of preparedness and the global community’s role in supporting affected regions.
Photo credit: Sky News
