Severe tropical storm "Podul" makes landfall in Taiwan, continuing its path towards mainland China.
Typhoon Podul Wreaks Havoc in Taiwan and Approaches China
Typhoon Podul, once a powerful storm with winds up to 178 km/h, has caused significant damage in Taiwan and is now heading towards the southeastern coast of China.
The typhoon made landfall in the Taitung district of Taiwan around August 13-16, 2025, bringing heavy rain (around 300 mm) and strong winds that knocked off fruit crops and disrupted daily life. As a result, flooding and wind damage were reported in several areas, particularly in Pingdong.
As of August 13, Podul was moving west-northwest at about 20 mph with tropical storm strength winds near 50 mph, located at 24.3 N, 116.9 E. Forecasts suggest it will continue its westward movement into southeastern China, where it may bring heavy rain and winds. However, its intensity appears to have weakened from peak typhoon strength.
The approaching typhoon has forced the suspension of classes in some schools in Guangdong province, and train and ferry services have been temporarily halted. Reports also indicate that over 8000 people have been evacuated due to the typhoon, but the exact number of people injured or missing is not available.
In addition, over 63,000 households remain without power due to the typhoon, and all domestic flights on the 23-million inhabitant island have been cancelled.
Scientists warn that human-induced climate change will increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods like Typhoon Podul. While the warning was made in general terms, it underscores the importance of addressing climate change to prevent such disasters in the future.
Local reports highlight the recovery challenges in Taiwan due to Podul's impacts following earlier storms. As the typhoon approaches China, authorities are preparing for potential damage and working to ensure the safety of their citizens.
Read also:
- Germany's three-month tenure under Merz's administration feels significantly extended
- United Nations Human Rights Evaluation, Session 45: United Kingdom's Statement Regarding Mauritius' Human Rights Record
- Hurricane-potential storm Erin forms, poised to become the first hurricane in the Atlantic Ocean this year.
- Socialist Digital Utopia with Zero Carbon Emissions: A Preview, Unless Resistance Arises
