Typhoon Kong-rey slams into southeastern Taiwan

Taiwan is preparing for Typhoon Kong-rey’s expected landfall on its populated east coast on Thursday, with authorities issuing warnings for heavy rain and strong winds ahead of the storm. Kong-rey is set to be the largest typhoon to hit the island in nearly 30 years.

Typhoon Kong-rey blew near the northernmost Philippine province of Batanes before slamming into southeastern Taiwan.

Thousands of residents were evacuated, and flights were canceled, as Taiwan braced for the impact. (Associated Press)