Typhoon Sadel nears Taiwan as flood defenses get presidential inspection
Taiwan is bracing for an incoming typhoon while the government pushes flood-control upgrades in Kaohsiung — mixed news for residents, and bad news for travelers heading to Okinawa.
- Typhoon Sadel is closing in, with a sea warning expected Wednesday evening.
- Airlines are already scrapping or delaying Okinawa flights — EVA Air canceled its full day of service, while China Airlines, Starlux, and Tigerair pushed back 14 flights.
- President Lai Ching-te toured flood-control sites in northern Kaohsiung, backing stronger retention ponds and pumping systems as extreme weather keeps hitting harder.
- Relief and interest-free loans are being lined up for fishing operations hurt by storm damage.
- Former deputy legislative speaker Jao Yung-chi died at 93, drawing tributes from Premier Cho Jung-tai.
Outlook: Expect more flight cancellations and possible land warnings as the storm tracks closer over the next few days.