1 Dead, Over 500 Injured As Typhoon Champi Strikes Taiwan Flights Cancelled, Thousands Hit By Power Cuts

Typhoon Champi struck Taiwan on Saturday, bringing heavy winds and torrential rain that resulted in at least one death and more than 500 injuries, according to Taiwan’s fire department and reporting partners.

The storm caused widespread power outages, with about 280,000 households losing power before restoration efforts brought electricity back to roughly 80% of affected homes by Saturday morning.

Air travel was disrupted as Champi led to the cancellation of 259 flights, an improvement from nearly 1,000 cancellations the previous day, according to the Transport Ministry.

In Taiwan’s capital and surrounding regions, strong gusts downed trees and prompted authorities in northern and central districts, including Taipei, to declare a second day of school and office closures.

Champi weakened as it moved north toward the Chinese coast, where authorities prepared for its approach by stationing rescue personnel and equipment; a Chinese rescue response was mobilized, with thousands on duty and weather warnings in place through Sunday.