Taiwan Transport Ministry Halts 931 Flights as Typhoon Champi Weakens

Taiwan's Transport Ministry cancelled 931 flights on Friday as Typhoon Champi moved past the island. The cancellation included all 262 domestic services and 669 international routes. High-speed rail lines along the western coast continued operations without disruption.

The storm system weakened from peak sustained winds of 298 kilometres per hour to 155 kilometres per hour. The centre of the storm remained offshore as it passed the northeastern tip of Taiwan. Forecasts indicate the system will turn north toward Japan's southwestern islands.

One person died in Liuqiu, a small island off the southeastern coast, after being swept away by waves on Thursday. The fire department confirmed the death. Ninety-four additional people were injured across the region. The government evacuated more than 2,600 residents from vulnerable mountainous areas.

The Central Weather Administration advised coastal residents to avoid outdoor activities and driving. Officials warned of falling objects and heavy rain. The storm's radius spans approximately 320 kilometres, covering most of the island.

Transport services in Taipei, including the subway, remained open. The capital experienced only light showers and gusty winds. Experts expect the storm's primary impact on Taiwan to continue through Saturday. The system is projected to reach Japan's southern mainland on Monday.

The typhoon affected parts of southwestern Japan and the northern Philippines. In Japan, a woman in her 70s broke a leg in Miyako island, and nearly 2,000 homes in Ishigaki lost power. In the Philippines, coast guard officials barred ships from sailing in rough waters off northern towns. The main airport in Basco closed its doors and cancelled two local flights.