TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Typhoon Podul's outer bands knocked out power to 258 households on Orchid Island (蘭嶼) on Wednesday (Aug. 13), offering a preview of the storm's destructive potential as it barrels toward Taiwan. Strong winds and torrential rain caused an electrical switch to trip along Hsiao Huan Road (小環路) in Tung Ching Village (東清部落), plunging residents into darkness. The power outage on this remote island off Taiwan's southeastern coast signals the beginning of what meteorologists warn could be a devastating weather event.
Taitung City residents braced for Typhoon Podul's arrival that day as authorities warned of potentially catastrophic winds exceeding level 14 on the Beaufort scale (over 118 kmh). The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署), Taiwan's national weather service, issued the highest-level advisories for Taitung County, Orchid Island, Green Island (綠島), and Penghu (澎湖). Officials urged residents to prioritize safety as sustained winds may reach level 12 (89-102 kmh), with devastating gusts potentially surpassing level 14.
The typhoon's reach extends far beyond the initial impact zones, with six additional counties and cities facing dangerous conditions. Yunlin County, Chiayi County, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Pingtung County, and Hualien County may experience sustained winds above level 9 (62-74 kmh), with gusts potentially reaching level 11 (89-102 kmh). Even Taiwan's northern and central regions received warnings, as thirteen other cities and counties could face winds exceeding level 6 (39-49 kmh), with gusts possibly hitting level 8 (62-74 kmh).
Typhoon Podul's massive storm field began engulfing Taiwan's southeastern, southern, and eastern coastlines earlier that day, with the eye positioned approximately 130 kilometers southeast of Taitung. The approaching cyclone prompted emergency officials to implement widespread alerts and precautionary measures across the island. Meteorologists tracked the storm's relentless advance as communities prepared for what could become one of the season's most destructive weather events. ◼
>>> In case of a typhoon or natural disaster, you should prepare for the storm and avoid going outside. Stay away from beaches and coastal areas for wave-watching or water activities. Be alert for strong winds and heavy rain while watching for landslides and falling rocks. Remember that emergency assistance is available at 119/1999, maritime emergencies at 118, and police or disaster reporting at 110/119.