Typhoon and Hospital Fire Cause Multiple Fatalities in Taiwan

Super Typhoon Krathon struck Taiwan with significant force, particularly impacting the southern region, including the major port city of Kaohsiung, and causing extensive damage. The storm brought high winds and torrential rains, leading to widespread power outages, flooding, and evacuations. Tragically, a concurrent fire at a hospital in Pingtung County, exacerbated by the typhoon, resulted in the deaths of at least nine people from smoke inhalation, with 176 patients evacuated to safety. The typhoon has caused at least two other fatalities and left several people injured or missing, while thousands have been displaced due to the threat of mudslides and landslides. Emergency services and military personnel have been actively involved in rescue and recovery operations, as the storm's slow movement hampers relief efforts. The economic impact has been severe, affecting industries and infrastructure across the affected regions.