Tropical Storm Champi Approaches China After Devastating Taiwan and Japan

TAIPEI: Tropical Storm Champi is advancing towards China after causing significant disruption in Taiwan and Japan’s southern islands over the weekend. The storm, which was downgraded from a typhoon, has left thousands without power and led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights.

As of Saturday, the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre reported that Champi’s wind speeds had decreased to 102 kilometers (63 miles) per hour. In Taiwan, authorities evacuated over 5,000 residents from vulnerable areas as the storm brought down trees, power lines, and caused localized flooding. Tragically, one fatality has been reported, along with more than 600 injuries since the onset of the storm warnings on Thursday.

In the aftermath, power has been restored to over 90 percent of the 340,000 households affected by the storm’s fierce winds and heavy rainfall. However, many shops across northern and central Taiwan remain closed as the region continues to recover. Officials have cautioned that while the storm is moving away, coastal areas may still experience strong winds and swells.

Looking ahead, local authorities are assessing the damage and preparing for potential further impacts as Champi approaches the Chinese coast. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as recovery efforts continue and weather conditions evolve.