TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Heavy rains due to the approaching Typhoon Krathon (山陀兒) have caused the water levels in rivers in Taitung to surge dramatically, creating alarming scenes on Wednesday (Oct. 2).
Zhiben River (知本溪) and Taimali River (太麻里溪) have both seen rushing water, while the Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) has issued a heavy rain alert for Taitung County.
Typhoon Krathon's peripheral circulation will bring a high probability of localized torrential rain, the CWA added.
The typhoon weakened to a moderate level early Wednesday morning, with the CWA reporting that the storm's periphery has already reached southern Taiwan and Taitung. This poses threats to areas south of Taichung, including Nantou, Hualien, Taitung, and Penghu.
The typhoon's intensity is expected to continue decreasing. The CWA has issued heavy rain alerts for 15 counties and cities across Taiwan, with torrential rain expected in Pingtung County and Taitung County.
Mountainous regions in Hualien and Pingtung face the likelihood of heavy to torrential rain, while Yilan County , Chiayi County, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Hualien County, Penghu County, Lanyu, and Green Island may experience heavy rain.
The northern coast of Keelung, New Taipei, Yilan, Yunlin, Chiayi, and areas north of Hsinchu also face potential heavy rain, with risks of lightning and strong gusts.
Authorities have advised against entering mountainous and river areas due to the risk of landslides, falling rocks, mudslides, and flash floods. Low-lying regions should remain vigilant against flooding.