Taiwan is bracing for the impact of Typhoon Usagi, with airlines, train services, and ferry operators canceling or suspending routes as the storm approaches the island. Expected to make landfall in southern Taiwan this weekend, Typhoon Usagi is forecast to bring severe weather conditions including strong winds, heavy rain, and high waves, primarily affecting Taiwan on Friday and Saturday.
Air Travel Disruptions: Cancellations by Taiwan Airlines
Several Taiwanese airlines have announced the cancellation of flights due to the approaching storm. On Thursday, Mandarin Airlines and UNI Air notified passengers of cancellations for Friday and Saturday flights.
- Mandarin Airlines will cancel flights AE-395 and AE-396, which operate between Taipei Songshan Airport and Taitung Airport in southeastern Taiwan.
- UNI Air will also cancel several flights: B7-8727, B7-8728, B7-8729, and B7-8730.
Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates, as other flights may also be affected due to ongoing weather conditions.
Ferry Service Suspensions: Pingtung and Liuqiu Island
The Pingtung County government has announced the suspension of all ferry services to and from Liuqiu Islet, a popular destination located off the coast of Pingtung County. Five ferry operators will halt services starting at noon on Friday, as the region is placed under a land warning for Typhoon Usagi.
Travelers planning to visit Liuqiu are urged to postpone their trips as sea conditions are expected to worsen, with waves potentially reaching 3 meters along Taiwan’s eastern and southwestern coastlines.
Taiwan Railway Services Impacted: Scenic Routes and Package Tours Canceled
The Taiwan Railway Corporation (TRA) also announced disruptions to its services. On Friday, the Breezy Blue sightseeing train services, which run between Taitung and Fangliao stations in Pingtung, will be suspended. Additionally, a train package tour scheduled for November 17 will be postponed until November 24.
The Alishan Forest Railway in Chiayi will halt operations for both Friday and Saturday, affecting travelers who had planned to visit the iconic Alishan area.
High-Speed Rail and Other Services: No Cancellations Yet
In contrast to other forms of transportation, Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) has confirmed that its bullet train services between Taipei and Kaohsiung will continue to operate as scheduled on Friday. However, passengers are still encouraged to monitor weather updates for any potential delays or changes in service.
Typhoon Usagi: Expected Path and Severe Weather Conditions
According to the Central Weather Administration (CWA), Typhoon Usagi is currently located approximately 350 kilometers south of Taiwan and is moving towards the island at a speed of 11 kilometers per hour. The storm is expected to make landfall in the southern county of Pingtung early Saturday morning.
The storm’s impact will be most significant on Friday, with forecasts indicating:
- Torrential rain in the Taitung and Hengchun Peninsula, with potential rainfall reaching up to 200 millimeters in a 24-hour period.
- Strong winds of 62-88 kilometers per hour are expected in coastal areas in northern Taiwan, Matsu Islands, and the Hengchun Peninsula on Friday morning.
- High waves up to 3 meters along the eastern and southwestern coastlines.
The CWA has issued advisories for coastal areas, urging residents and visitors to take precautions against potential flooding, landslides, and gale-force winds.
Table: Affected Services Due to Typhoon Usagi
| Service Type | Operator/Service | Affected Dates | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Travel | Mandarin Airlines & UNI Air | Friday, November 17 | Flights to/from Taitung Airport canceled |
| Ferry Services | Various Operators (5 companies) | From Friday, noon onward | All ferry services to/from Liuqiu Islet suspended |
| Train Services | Taiwan Railway (TRA) | Friday, November 17 | Breezy Blue sightseeing service suspended |
| High-Speed Rail | Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) | Friday, November 17 | No disruption, services operate as usual |
| Forest Railway | Alishan Forest Railway | Friday and Saturday, Nov 17-18 | All services suspended |
FAQs:
1. Which flights have been canceled due to Typhoon Usagi?
Mandarin Airlines and UNI Air have canceled several flights between Taipei Songshan and Taitung Airport for Friday, including flights AE-395 and AE-396 (Mandarin Airlines) and B7-8727, B7-8728, B7-8729, B7-8730 (UNI Air).
2. Are ferry services to Liuqiu Island still operating?
No, ferry services to Liuqiu Islet have been suspended starting at noon on Friday. This suspension applies to five ferry companies serving the route.
3. Will Taiwan High Speed Rail be affected by the typhoon?
No, Taiwan High Speed Rail services between Taipei and Kaohsiung are expected to operate as usual on Friday. However, travelers should stay updated for any unforeseen changes.
4. What is the expected weather impact of Typhoon Usagi on Taiwan?
Typhoon Usagi is forecast to bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and high waves to Taiwan, with the most severe weather expected on Friday. Coastal areas, particularly in Taitung and the Hengchun Peninsula, should prepare for up to 200 millimeters of rain.
5. Which train services are canceled due to the typhoon?
The Breezy Blue sightseeing trains between Taitung and Fangliao in Pingtung have been canceled for Friday. Additionally, Alishan Forest Railway services will be suspended on both Friday and Saturday.
