Typhoon soaks Taiwan

TAIPEI - HUNDREDS of people evacuated their homes as Typhoon Jangmi pounded Taiwan with strong winds and heavy rain on Sunday, causing a major landslide and forcing the cancellation of flights.

Forecasters warned of possible flash floods saying Jangmi, the sixth and biggest storm to hit Taiwan this year, could unleash up to 1400 millimetres (56 inches) of rainfall in some areas.

High-speed rail services were suspended and all domestic flights were cancelled, although international air traffic was largely unaffected.

Hundreds of residents were evacuated from remote villages and fishing boats sought shelter at ports, the National Fire Agency said.

Jangmi, meaning 'rose' in Korean, made landfall in northeastern Ilan county around 3.40pm, the Central Weather Bureau said.

A major landslide disrupting traffic on a major highway in eastern Taiwan, rescuers said.

Local television stations compared the typhoon to a category five hurricane.

'This is a strong typhoon. No matter where it makes landfall, it could introduce powerful winds and heavy rains and accordingly wreak havoc,' the Central Weather Bureau's Mr Wu Teh-jung told reporters.

At least 14 people were killed and seven others reported missing earlier this month after Typhoon Sinlaku pounded the island, causing bridges, hotels and houses to collapse.