Typhoon Champi forces 931 flight cancellations across Taiwan

Travellers and commuters in Taiwan faced disrupted schedules on Friday as authorities cancelled 931 flights and closed most public schools. The Transport Ministry suspended all 262 domestic services and 669 international departures to mitigate risks from the approaching weather system. High-speed rail lines on the western coast operated without interruption, offering a limited alternative for those needing to travel between major cities.

Typhoon Champi hit peak winds of 298 km/h earlier in the week. By Friday, the system had slowed to 155 km/h as it moved from the southeast. The storm's centre remained offshore while tracking past the northeastern tip of the island. It is expected to turn north and reach Japan's southwestern islands by Monday.

The weather event has already taken a toll on the region. Fire officials reported one death on Thursday in Liuqiu, a small island off the southeastern coast. Ninety-four people were injured during the initial passage. Government records show that more than 2,600 residents have been evacuated from vulnerable mountainous areas to ensure safety.

The Central Weather Administration advised the public to avoid outdoor activities and driving in coastal zones. Officials specifically warned residents to watch for falling objects due to high gusts. Despite the storm's 320 km radius covering most of the country, the subway system in Taipei remained open. The capital experienced only light showers and gusty winds.

Experts project the heaviest impact on Taiwan will continue through Saturday. The storm's path then shifts toward Japan's southern mainland. In the Philippines, the coast guard halted ship and ferry traffic in northern waters on Friday. The main airport in Basco, the capital of Batanes province, closed its doors and cancelled two local flights. Officials boarded up windows at the facility as a precaution.

Nearly 200 people in Cagayan province moved to safer locations. Almost 100 of them occupied government-run emergency shelters. Provincial authorities suspended classes in the island town of Calayan. The storm had earlier affected Pacific islands, including Guam, where a federal disaster area was declared earlier in the month.

The Transport Ministry confirmed the full halt of air travel for the day. The cancellation of 931 flights represents a complete suspension of both domestic and international commercial air traffic in the country. Schools and offices remain closed under the government's directive for the day.