Taiwan sees flooding and landslides from Typhoon Gaemi, which caused 22 deaths in the Philippines

 Typhoon Gaemi has caused significant damage in Taiwan, including flooding in low-lying areas, landslides, and destruction to homes and shops. The storm, which swept through the western Pacific, has resulted in at least 22 fatalities in the Philippines due to flooding and landslides, and three deaths in Taiwan, with over 220 reported injuries.

In response to the typhoon, offices and schools in Taiwan have been closed for the second consecutive day. Residents have been advised to stay indoors and avoid coastal areas. Despite having robust warning systems, Taiwan's topography, high population density, and advanced economy make it challenging to completely mitigate the impact of such storms.

The capital, Taipei, experienced an unusually quiet day with light rain and occasional gusty winds.

In the Philippines, the death toll continues to rise due to drownings and landslides, with at least three individuals reported missing. Additionally, an oil tanker named MT Terra Nova, carrying approximately 1.4 million liters (370,000 gallons) of industrial fuel oil, sank off Limay town in Bataan province early Thursday. Rescuers managed to save 15 of the 16 crew members, but it is unclear if the sinking was directly related to the severe weather. Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista noted that coast guard personnel faced difficulties reaching the site due to rough seas, complicating efforts to manage a potential oil spill.

The storm also led to the cancellation of air force drills off Taiwan’s east coast. Known as Carina in the Philippines, Gaemi did not make landfall there but intensified the seasonal monsoon rains.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged authorities to expedite the delivery of food and aid to isolated rural areas, highlighting the severe conditions in these regions. "People there may not have eaten for days," Marcos said during a televised emergency meeting.

In the densely populated areas surrounding the Philippine capital, government operations and school classes have been suspended due to widespread flooding.

The effects of the storm are expected to persist into Friday as it moves northward toward mainland China. In China’s Fujian province, ferry routes were suspended on Wednesday, and all train services are set to be halted on Thursday, according to Xinhua News Agency.