Taiwan's meteorological agency said today that Typhoon Podul is expected to hit the southeastern coast on 13/8, then sweep across the island and into the Taiwan Strait. Winds at the storm's center could reach 133 km/h, with gusts of 166 km/h.

31,000 Taiwanese defense personnel have been mobilized for disaster relief and rescue operations, according to the island's defense agency. Uni Air and Mandarin Airlines have canceled all flights on the island for tomorrow.

Fishermen secure their boats at a port in Yilan County, Taiwan on 12/8 ahead of Typhoon Podul. Photo: AFP

Fishermen secure their boats at a port in Yilan County, Taiwan on 12/8 ahead of Typhoon Podul. Photo: AFP

The areas predicted to be hardest hit by Typhoon Podul are Hualien, Taitung, Chiayi counties, and southern Taiwan. Meteorologists have warned residents to be alert for strong winds and heavy rain on 13-14/8.

Taiwanese authorities evacuated 700 people from their homes in Hualien County and 1,100 from mountainous areas in Kaohsiung City. According to a meteorologist, Kaohsiung and neighboring Pingtung County could receive 400-600 mm of rain from 12-14/8, with other areas receiving over 350 mm.

Projected path of Typhoon Podul. Graphic: Google

Projected path of Typhoon Podul. Graphic: Google

Central and southern Taiwan are still recovering from Typhoon Danas and heavy rains in recent weeks.

Typhoon Danas hit Taiwan in early July with up to 500 mm of rain in the south of the island, killing two people and injuring hundreds. Heavy rains from 28/7-4/8 left five people dead, three missing, and 78 injured.

Nguyen Tien (According to Reuters, AFP, AP)