Taiwan Shuts Down as Typhoon Champi Nears Northeast Coast

Workplaces and schools across Taiwan were closed Friday as Typhoon Champi approached, bringing threats of torrential rain, flash flooding and dangerous coastal conditions. More than 1,000 residents have been evacuated from vulnerable rural areas while hundreds of flights have been cancelled. Authorities warned that mountainous regions around Taipei could receive up to one meter of rainfall. Although Champi is weakening and is not expected to make landfall, the storm will pass close to Taiwan’s northeast coast, with impacts forecast to continue through Saturday. One person drowned Thursday after being swept out to sea near Xiaoliuqiu in southern Taiwan.