Typhoon Bavi reaches Taiwan, most areas suspend work, classes

TAIPEI -- Typhoon Bavi, the ninth typhoon of the year, reached northeastern Taiwan early Saturday morning, forcing the cancellation of flights in Taipei and Taichung, and the suspension of work and classes in most areas across the island.

The latest information indicated that winds and rainfall were intensifying across Taiwan, with scattered reports of damage including power outages and a landslide.

Weather authorities said the center of the typhoon was located over waters about 360 kilometers southeast of Taipei, moving northwestward at a speed of 27 kilometers per hour.

Heavy rainfall will continue throughout the day, with extremely heavy rain forecast for the mountainous areas north of Taichung, and strong winds in many areas. The public has been urged to avoid going to beaches due to high waves.

Rainfall is expected to continue into the night in the mountainous areas of central and southern Taiwan, said meteorological officials, adding on Sunday, rainfall across the island will gradually subside.