Typhoon Khanun brought heavy rains overnight causing damage in many areas of Taiwan, even causing landslides and crippling major highways.
Typhoon Khanun unleashed its fury across Taiwan, leaving behind a trail of destruction. The relentless downpour in the Guguan area near Taichung caused a large rockfall on the Central Cross-Island Highway. The landslide left a colossal boulder obstructing the highway, rendering it impassable. It is anticipated that the clearing operations might extend until next Monday.
Engineering workers at the scene have been attempting to rectify the damage caused by the collapse. A worker on-site said that the landslide's volume reached 1,200 cubic meters, with the massive boulder constituting nearly half of that immense size.
Rainwater pouring down from the top of the tunnel on the highway created a waterfall-like scene. Mountain springs became murky due to the copious rainwater, even causing the once clear fish tanks down in the town to transform into pools of muddy water.
The impact extends beyond physical damages, affecting local businesses that typically thrive during this season. Streets are deserted, without any tourists in sight. A local restaurant owner said the area normally receives many guests every day, who come to climb the surrounding mountains and visit the hot springs, but the past few days have been very quiet due to the typhoon.
As Typhoon Khanun moves away from Taiwan, the weather remains unstable due to the lingering southwest airflow. Authorities advise residents and travelers alike to remain vigilant. Anyone visiting Guguan in the coming days should be cautious and prioritize safety.