Typhoon Gaemi: Devastating Impact on Taiwan, Philippines, and China

Overview

Typhoon Gaemi, also known as Super Typhoon Carina in the Philippines, is a powerful tropical cyclone that has caused significant destruction and loss of life in Taiwan, the Philippines, and China. Formed on July 19, 2024, Gaemi rapidly intensified into a Category-4 typhoon, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and widespread flooding to the affected regions.

Meteorological History

Gaemi originated as a tropical disturbance near Palau on July 17, 2024. Favorable conditions in the Philippine Sea allowed it to intensify into a tropical storm on July 20, and it was named by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The typhoon underwent an eyewall replacement cycle, rapidly intensifying into a Category-4 typhoon on July 23. Gaemi made landfall in Taiwan on July 24, causing extensive damage and loss of life before moving into China on July 25.

Impact on Taiwan

Typhoon Gaemi brought severe flooding and landslides to Taiwan, with over 1000mm of rainfall recorded in some areas. The southern city of Kaohsiung was particularly affected, with parts of the city submerged under more than a meter of water, resulting in three fatalities. A search and rescue operation is underway for six missing Burmese sailors after their cargo vessel sank off Taiwan’s northern coast.

Impact on the Philippines

Although Gaemi did not make a direct impact on the Philippines, it enhanced the seasonal monsoon rains, causing significant flooding in various regions. The combined effects of the Southwest Monsoon and Gaemi brought heavy to intense rains across the Philippines, particularly in Northern Luzon and Metro Manila. The flooding resulted in mandatory evacuations, road closures, and significant disruptions.

Impact on China

In preparation for the storm, over 150,000 residents in the southeastern Chinese province of Fujian were relocated to safer areas. Gaemi made landfall in Fujian Province on July 25, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. The storm forced the evacuation of over 27,000 people in northeast China and the suspension of hundreds of factories.

Key Statistics

Conclusion

Typhoon Gaemi has left a trail of destruction and loss of life in Taiwan, the Philippines, and China. The storm’s powerful winds and heavy rainfall have caused widespread flooding, landslides, and significant disruptions to daily life. As the affected regions continue to recover, the importance of preparedness and disaster management is underscored.