Typhoon Bawee batters Taiwan's Changhua with fires, power outages, and fallen trees

Typhoon Bawee brought strong winds and heavy rain to Changhua, Taiwan, triggering a series of disasters including a major house fire and widespread power outages.

In Changhua City, a fire broke out in a residential building early on July 12, with thick smoke billowing from the third to fifth floors. Firefighters responded quickly and extinguished the blaze within 30 minutes, though the interior suffered severe smoke damage. Fortunately, no one was trapped.

Hemei Township experienced a dramatic incident when a large tree toppled onto a parked car, shattering its windshield. No injuries were reported.

Power outages affected multiple households in Fenyuan Township, with Taiwan Power Company personnel working to restore electricity. The 139 County Road also saw a tree fall, blocking traffic. Changhua Mayor Lin Shih-hsien personally inspected the damage, urging residents to remain indoors for safety due to the strong winds.

"Changhua City experienced a residential fire during the typhoon night, with severe smoke damage inside," a statement from the fire department confirmed. Images shared by the mayor showed a large tree blocking the Shihpaitou Industrial Road in the Bagua Mountain area, which cleanup crews quickly cleared.

Residents in Huatan Township and other parts of Changhua City also reported power outages, with Taiwan Power Company crews working diligently to restore service.

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Changhua City experienced a residential fire during the typhoon night, with severe smoke damage inside.