At least 3 dead, several missing as Typhoon Megi hits Taiwan

[News_Editor]

At least 3 dead, several missing as Typhoon Megi hits Taiwan

2010-10-22 23:27:31 GMT+7 (ICT)

TAIPEI, TAWIAN (BNO NEWS) -- At least 3 people have died and 21 are reported missing after Typhoon Megi triggered a landslide that buried a temple and stranded hundred of drivers in Taiwan, local media reported Friday.

Torrential rains from the strongest storm that has hit the region in 20 years and devastated the Philippines during the week, has dumped 1,200 millimeters (44 inches) of rain in the northeastern region of Taiwan, where 2,742 people have reportedly been evacuated.

Landslides buried the Bai Yun Temple in Suao, located in Ilan county, and has stranded around 400 people, 70 of which have been airlifted. Rescue efforts at the temple have dub up three bodies buried under the debris, including those of two nuns, according to Taipei's National Fire Agency. However, the death toll could rise with the number of buried people still being uncertain.

Interior Minister Jiang Yi-huah said rescue teams are still searching for a missing tour bus with 21 people on board, including 19 Chinese tourists from Zhuhai City in Guangdong Province.

"The threat of Megi still exists today and we urge all to be on guard against torrential rains," Yi-huah said.

The Council of Agriculture said the severe weather had caused an estimated damage of NT$45.86 million ($1.5 million dollars) and crop losses of about NT$22.54 million ($730,000 dollars).

According to reports, Megi is forecasted to move at about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) per hour toward the coast of Fujian province in southern China, and as it continues to weaken, it is expected to make landfall on Saturday.

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