Typhoon Haikui strengthens, bringing heavy rain and winds to Taiwan

Typhoon Haikui is intensifying as it approaches Taiwan's northern coast, with forecasters warning of prolonged heavy rain and strong winds across the island. The storm, located about 360 kilometers northeast of Taipei on Wednesday morning, is moving westward and is expected to make landfall in China's Zhejiang province.

Former Director-General of the Central Weather Administration, Zheng Ming-dian, noted that Haikui is exhibiting signs of "near-shore strengthening." He cautioned residents in northern Taiwan, particularly Taipei, Hsinchu, and Miaoli counties, to be prepared for potential heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. The storm's spiral rain bands could affect Taiwan throughout the day, with wind and rain expected to peak around noon.

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Currently, Haikui's circulation structure and convection status show that Typhoon Haikui is currently experiencing 'near-shore strengthening.'

Zheng urged people to exercise caution due to strong gusts, warning of falling objects and uprooted trees. The Central Weather Administration issued a heavy rain advisory, highlighting the risk of landslides, rockfalls, and flash floods in mountainous areas, as well as waterlogging in low-lying regions. The typhoon is expected to gradually weaken after its approach to the coast.

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The rain bands over Taiwan may continue for the whole day. It is estimated that the wind and rain will reach their peak around noon.