Key Takeaways
• Typhoon Danas made a first-ever landfall in Chiayi County with winds up to 222 km/h on July 7, 2025.
• Two deaths, hundreds injured, 3,500 evacuations, and over 500,000 households lost power in Taiwan.
• At least 33 international flights canceled; government coordinates emergency response and ongoing recovery efforts.
Typhoon Danas Strikes Taiwan: Unprecedented Impact on Chiayi County, Major Disruptions, and Ongoing Risks
Typhoon Danas made a rare and powerful landfall in Chiayi County, Taiwan, in the early hours of Monday, July 7, 2025. The storm brought deadly winds, heavy rain, and widespread damage, marking the first time a typhoon has ever directly hit this part of the island. As the storm moved northwest across Taiwan and into the Taiwan Strait, it left behind a trail of destruction, with two people killed, hundreds injured, and major disruptions to daily life, travel, and the economy. Here’s a detailed look at what happened, why this event is so unusual, and what it means for residents, travelers, and the broader region.
Typhoon Danas: What Happened and Where
Who was affected?
Typhoon Danas struck the people of Taiwan 🇹🇼, especially those living in Chiayi County, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and other parts of the island’s west and south. The storm’s path was highly unusual, catching many off guard and putting communities not used to such direct hits at great risk.
What happened?
At about 1:00 AM local time on July 7, Typhoon Danas made landfall in Chiayi County. This was the first time on record that a typhoon hit this area directly. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) described the storm’s path as “very unusual,” with Danas bringing maximum sustained winds of up to 222 km/h (138 mph) and gusts nearly as strong in nearby Yunlin County. The typhoon quickly weakened as it crossed the island, but not before causing widespread damage.
When and where did it happen?
The storm hit Chiayi County on Taiwan’s west coast at 1:00 AM, then moved northwest across the island. By 9:00 AM, Danas was about 70 km north-northwest of Taipei and heading toward China. The storm is expected to make a second landfall in eastern China between July 8 and 9.
Why is this event important?
Typhoon Danas’s landfall in Chiayi County is unprecedented. Most typhoons that hit Taiwan usually strike the east coast, where people and infrastructure are more prepared for such events. This time, the storm hit the west, home to many of Taiwan’s largest cities and industries. The impact was felt by millions, with significant effects on safety, transportation, business, and daily life.
How did the authorities respond?
The Central Emergency Operation Center (CEOC), led by Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang, quickly coordinated emergency response efforts. Local governments in Tainan, Chiayi, and Kaohsiung managed evacuations, relief, and recovery, while the CWA continued to monitor the storm and issue warnings.
Immediate Impact: Deaths, Injuries, and Damage
Fatalities and Injuries
– Two people died in Tainan:
– A 60-year-old man died after a power outage disabled his respirator.
– A 69-year-old man was killed by a falling tree while driving.
– Hundreds were injured: Reports range from 334 to nearly 500 people hurt, with the highest numbers in Tainan (165) and Chiayi City (55).
Evacuations and Power Outages
– About 3,500 residents—mostly from mountainous areas near Kaohsiung—were evacuated due to the risk of landslides and flash floods.
– At the peak, over 500,000 households lost power. As of early Monday, nearly 400,000 homes were still without electricity.
Infrastructure and Flooding
– More than 700 trees and street signs were knocked down.
– No major damage was reported at the Tainan Science Park, which houses important tech companies like TSMC.
– Flooding was widespread: Southern Taiwan received over 500 mm (20 inches) of rain. Pingtung’s Majia Township saw 288 mm, and Kaohsiung’s Sinsing District recorded 214.5 mm by 8:30 AM.
Transportation Chaos: Flights, Trains, and Roads
Flight Disruptions
– At least 33 international flights were canceled on Monday.
– Hundreds of domestic and international flights faced delays or cancellations, affecting travelers in and out of Taiwan.
Rail and Road Closures
– High-speed rail services between north and south Taiwan were reduced but are expected to return to normal on Tuesday, July 8.
– Many roads in affected regions were closed due to flooding, debris, and landslides, making travel dangerous or impossible in some areas.
Advice for Travelers
Anyone planning to travel to or from Taiwan or eastern China should check the latest weather and transportation updates before making any plans. The Central Weather Administration provides real-time updates and warnings for travelers and residents.
Government Response: Emergency Actions and Relief
Emergency Operations
The Central Emergency Operation Center (CEOC) was activated to coordinate the response. Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang led efforts to assess damage, manage evacuations, and issue ongoing warnings for landslides and flooding in central, southern, and eastern Taiwan.
School and Business Closures
Widespread closures were put in place across western Taiwan, including in Tainan, Chiayi, and Kaohsiung, to keep people safe and allow emergency crews to work.
Customs and Economic Relief
The customs service announced special measures to help companies affected by the typhoon. While details are still being worked out, these steps are meant to support businesses facing losses or delays due to the storm.
Agricultural Losses
Early estimates put agricultural losses at a minimum of NT$250 million (about USD 7.7 million). Farmers in the hardest-hit areas are expected to need significant support to recover.
Ongoing Risks and Official Warnings
Land and Sea Warnings
As of Monday afternoon, land warnings remained in effect for northern and eastern counties. Sea warnings were expected to be lifted by late evening, but the risk of heavy rain and landslides continued.
Rainfall and Landslide Risk
Heavy rain persisted in mountainous areas, with localized torrential rain and landslide risk in Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Miaoli, and other regions. Residents in these areas were urged to stay alert and follow local government instructions.
Heat Risk
Hot, dry winds in Taitung could push temperatures above 36°C, adding another layer of risk for people already dealing with storm damage.
Key Stakeholders: Leaders, Experts, and Communities
President Lai Ching-te
President Lai urged all citizens to remain vigilant, highlighting the unusual path and broad impact of Typhoon Danas. He noted that the storm affected densely populated western Taiwan, which is less used to such events.
Central Weather Administration (CWA)
The CWA continued to monitor the storm and provide updates. Forecaster Wu Wan-hua gave detailed briefings on the storm’s weakening and the ongoing risks.
Local Governments
Local officials in Tainan, Chiayi, and Kaohsiung coordinated evacuations, relief, and recovery, focusing on the hardest-hit communities.
Meteorologists and Community Leaders
Experts pointed out the rarity and unpredictability of Danas’s path, stressing the need for better forecasting and preparedness for future west-coast landfalls. Community leaders urged continued caution, especially in rural and mountainous areas at risk of landslides and flash floods.
Historical Context: Why Typhoon Danas Was Different
Unprecedented Landfall in Chiayi County
This was the first time a typhoon made landfall in Chiayi County and the first major strike on Taiwan’s central-west coast in over 100 years. Most typhoons that hit Taiwan usually come ashore on the east coast, where people and infrastructure are more prepared.
Seasonal Timing and Formation
Typhoon Danas was the fourth named storm and the first typhoon of the 2025 Pacific typhoon season. It formed quickly from a disturbance east-southeast of Hong Kong on July 3, 2025, and gained strength as it approached Taiwan.
Future Outlook: What’s Next for Taiwan and the Region
China Landfall and Further Risks
Danas is expected to make landfall in eastern China, likely in Zhejiang province, between July 8 and 9. The storm may get a bit stronger before weakening and breaking up over land within three days.
Continued Rainfall and Flooding
Taiwan will keep seeing heavy rain and possible flooding through Monday, with some effects lasting into the coming days. Residents should stay alert for further warnings and be ready for more disruptions.
Restoration and Recovery Efforts
Power restoration, debris clearance, and repairs to roads and other infrastructure are ongoing. Authorities are giving priority to affected households and critical services like hospitals and emergency shelters.
Economic Impact and Relief Measures
A full assessment of agricultural and economic losses is underway. The government is expected to announce more relief measures soon to help those affected by the storm.
Practical Guidance for Residents, Travelers, and Businesses
For Travelers:
– Check the latest weather and transportation updates before traveling to or from Taiwan or eastern China.
– Contact airlines and train companies for the most current information on cancellations and delays.
For Residents:
– Follow local government warnings and stay away from mountainous or low-lying areas prone to landslides and flooding.
– Prepare for possible further disruptions in power and transport.
– Keep emergency supplies on hand and know where to find local shelters if needed.
For Businesses:
– Monitor official announcements for relief measures and customs facilitation if your company was affected by the storm.
– Keep in touch with local authorities for updates on recovery efforts and support programs.
Official Resources:
– The Central Weather Administration provides real-time updates and warnings.
– The Central Emergency Operation Center offers emergency response and assistance.
– Taiwan High-Speed Rail and major airlines have the latest transportation status.
– Local government hotlines are available for evacuation, shelter, and relief information.
Expert Perspectives: Lessons and Policy Changes
Meteorologists:
Experts say Typhoon Danas’s unusual path shows the need for better forecasting and preparedness, especially for areas on Taiwan’s west coast that rarely see direct hits.
Government Officials:
Officials stress the importance of quick response, strong infrastructure, and clear public communication in managing such rare and dangerous events.
Community Leaders:
Local leaders urge people to stay alert, especially in rural and mountainous communities where the risk of landslides and flash floods remains high.
Policy and Infrastructure Changes:
– The government is expected to review and possibly update typhoon preparedness and response plans, especially for western Taiwan.
– There are discussions about making power grids, medical backup systems, and flood defenses stronger in vulnerable areas.
Broader Implications: What This Means for Taiwan and Beyond
Typhoon Danas’s direct hit on Chiayi County is a wake-up call for Taiwan 🇹🇼. It shows that even areas not usually at risk can face serious danger from extreme weather. The storm’s impact on transportation, business, and daily life highlights the need for everyone—residents, travelers, businesses, and officials—to be ready for the unexpected.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, events like Typhoon Danas also have ripple effects beyond Taiwan. International travelers, foreign workers, and companies with ties to the island must pay close attention to official updates and be prepared for sudden changes in plans. The lessons learned from this storm will likely shape how Taiwan and its neighbors prepare for future typhoons.
Action Steps and Takeaways
- Stay informed: Use official sources like the Central Weather Administration for the latest updates.
- Follow instructions: Listen to local government warnings and be ready to evacuate if needed.
- Prepare for disruptions: Keep emergency supplies, charge devices, and have backup plans for travel and work.
- Support recovery: If you’re able, help neighbors and local communities as they recover from the storm.
Typhoon Danas’s impact on Chiayi County and the rest of Taiwan 🇹🇼 is a reminder that nature can surprise us, and preparation is key. By learning from this event and working together, Taiwan can build a safer and more resilient future for everyone.
For more information and real-time updates, visit the Central Weather Administration’s official website.
Learn Today
Typhoon → A tropical cyclone with strong winds and heavy rain, common in the Pacific region during typhoon season.
Landfall → When a storm moves from the sea to the land, causing significant impact on coastal areas.
Central Weather Administration (CWA) → Taiwan’s government agency responsible for weather forecasting and storm warnings.
Evacuation → The process of moving people from dangerous areas to safer locations during emergencies.
Flash Flood → Rapid flooding caused by heavy rainfall, often creating sudden and dangerous water flows.
This Article in a Nutshell
Typhoon Danas struck Taiwan’s west coast, unprecedented in Chiayi County, causing deaths, injuries, major power outages, flooding, and transport disruptions. Authorities launched swift emergency responses amid continuing risks, emphasizing vigilance and community resilience amid this rare and powerful storm that challenges Taiwan’s preparedness and impacts millions.
— By VisaVerge.com
