TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) announced on Monday (Sept. 30) that Typhoon Krathon (山陀兒) will begin impacting numerous areas in Taiwan on Oct. 1, with the most severe effects expected on Oct. 2.
The typhoon has been intensifying, prompting the CWA to issue a nationwide sea and land warning.
The storm's outer bands are expected to reach Pingtung, Kaohsiung, and Taitung by Monday evening. A Facebook group focused on weather forecasts, "Facts About Typhoons" (用事實說颱風), noted that Typhoon Krathon's structure is solid and could approach land as a severe typhoon, urging all regions to remain vigilant.
"Facts About Typhoons" predicted that Pingtung, Taitung, Hualien, Yilan, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Chiayi, and Yunlin might suspend work and classes during the day on Oct. 1.
In the evening, northern areas including Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung, Yilan, Hualien, and Taitung, as well as southern areas of Pingtung and Kaohsiung, could meet the criteria for a "typhoon day-off" as well.
The Facebook group predicted that the entire island might qualify for disaster prevention leave on Oct. 2. By Oct. 3, some townships in the eastern and northern mountainous regions could also meet the criteria.
However, the CWA emphasized that the decision to suspend work and classes depends on local wind and rain conditions, as well as traffic situations. If Typhoon Krathon shifts westward, the weather conditions will vary across different regions.
Residents should stay informed and prepare for possible disruptions as the typhoon approaches.