According to the latest weather update, Meranti was last located 60 kilometers southwest of the Penghu Islands, packing gusts of up to 227 kilometers per hour. Weather officials say this is the strongest typhoon to hit Taiwan in 21 years.

Trees are broken by strong wind on a highway from Pingtung to Kenting in typhoon-hit Taiwan, southeast China, Sept. 14, 2016. Typhoon Meranti on Wednesday brought strong winds and heavy downpour to the island. (Xinhua)

Violent winds and torrential rains have disrupted transportation ahead of a major holiday, with over 300 domestic and international flights being cancelled. Trains running along the east coast were also stopped, while 130 ferry services have been suspended. Strong winds have overturned vehicles, blown off roofs and uprooted trees and electricity poles. More than half a million households are now suffering from power outages.

Authorities have warned residents living nearby mountainous areas, as heavy rains can trigger landslides. More than a thousand residents have been evacuated so far. No fatalities have been reported, though 9 people have suffered minor injuries. Meranti is now moving toward the Taiwan Strait at 17 kilometres per hour and is expected to head into southern China.

Electric line poles are blown down on a highway from Pingtung to Kenting in typhoon-hit Taiwan, southeast China, Sept. 14, 2016. Typhoon Meranti on Wednesday brought strong winds and heavy downpour to the island. (Xinhua)