Image Source: Reuters
Flights across Taiwan were canceled Friday as Typhoon Champi brought dangerous winds, intense rain and widespread disruption to the island. Authorities reported one death and 171 injuries as the powerful storm passed close to Taiwan’s northeastern coast.
The storm, which previously reached super typhoon strength, forced the cancellation of all 262 domestic flights and 669 international flights, according to Taiwan’s transport ministry. Schools and offices across Taiwan’s main island were also closed as officials warned residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Breaking Flights Disruption as Champi Batters Taiwan
Typhoon Champi peaked earlier in the week with one-minute sustained winds of 185 mph, a strength equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center defines a super typhoon as a storm with sustained winds of at least 150 mph.
By Friday morning, Champi had weakened considerably, but it still posed a serious threat. Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration said the storm was located about 210 miles northeast of Taiwan’s southern tip and was moving slowly north-northeast at approximately 4 mph.
The storm had sustained winds near 96 mph and gusts reaching 119 mph at that time. Forecasters said its effects could continue for nearly two days as the system moved north before turning toward Japan.
Deadly Conditions Trigger Urgent Evacuations
The fatality occurred Thursday on Liuqiu, a small island off Taiwan’s southeastern coast. The fire department said the person was swept away by waves, highlighting the danger along exposed coastal areas.
Authorities evacuated nearly 1,300 people from vulnerable mountainous communities, according to Taiwan’s Focus Taiwan news agency. Officials were particularly concerned about landslides, falling trees and flooding in areas already vulnerable to heavy rainfall.
Mobile phone warnings urged residents in coastal towns to avoid outdoor activities and driving. Waves were expected to exceed 6 meters, or approximately 20 feet, in some locations.
- One person was reported dead and 171 were injured.
- All 262 domestic flights were canceled.
- A total of 669 international flights were also canceled.
- Nearly 1,300 people were evacuated from high-risk areas.
- Schools and offices closed across Taiwan’s main island.
Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Threaten Travel
Champi was expected to bring heavy rain to Taiwan through Saturday, October 24, with the heaviest rainfall forecast for northeastern parts of the island. Some areas could receive up to 18 inches of rain, while northern mountain regions near Taipei faced forecasts approaching 3 feet.
Those conditions raised the risk of flash flooding, mudslides and structural damage. Strong winds could also bring down trees, damage buildings and cause extended power outages, further complicating transportation and emergency response efforts.
Eastern China was expected to experience heavy rain from Friday night through Sunday, October 25. Wind gusts of up to 120 mph were possible in parts of Taiwan and eastern China, according to AccuWeather meteorologist Jason Nicholls.
Travelers were advised to check directly with airlines and airports before leaving for the airport. Even after weather conditions improve, airlines may need additional time to reposition aircraft, clear runways and manage large passenger backlogs.
What Happens to Flights Next?
The storm was forecast to brush Taiwan’s northeastern coast before gradually weakening and continuing north toward the Chinese coast and southern Japan. While the system was losing strength, forecasters cautioned that rainfall and dangerous coastal conditions could persist.
Airlines typically resume service in stages following a major storm. Priority is given to safety inspections, runway access and air traffic control operations. Passengers whose flights were canceled may face rebooking delays as carriers work through disrupted schedules.
Authorities also warned that roads, rail lines and ferry services could remain affected even after airports reopen. Flooding and landslides may restrict access to terminals and create further delays for travelers.
Typhoon Champi’s rapid rise to one of the strongest storms of 2026 has renewed attention on the risks posed by extreme weather in the western Pacific. For Taiwan, the immediate priorities remain protecting residents, restoring transportation links and monitoring the storm’s next move.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights and Typhoon Champi
Were flights canceled in Taiwan because of Typhoon Champi?
Yes. Taiwan canceled all 262 domestic flights and 669 international flights as the typhoon brought dangerous winds, heavy rain and coastal hazards.
How strong was Typhoon Champi?
Champi reached a peak intensity of 185 mph in one-minute sustained winds, making it equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane and one of the strongest storms of 2026.
When could flights resume?
Flight schedules depend on airport inspections, runway conditions, weather alerts and airline operations. Travelers should confirm their flight status before going to the airport.
Which areas faced the greatest risks?
Northeastern Taiwan, coastal communities and mountainous areas faced heightened risks from flooding, landslides, large waves and damaging winds.
