The storm has already injured 46 people and forced thousands of evacuations, the authorities said, warning that torrential rain could cause landslides and flooding.

KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan (Reuters) - Taiwan shut down on Wednesday with offices, schools and financial markets closed ahead of the arrival of a weakening Typhoon Krathon, which is forecast to bring storm surges along the coast and torrential rain.

KAOHSIUNG: Taiwan mobilised nearly 40,000 troops on Tuesday (Oct 1) to bolster rescue efforts as the powerful Typhoon Krathon approaching its populous southwest coast is expected to bring a storm surge and the coast guard raced to locate 19 sailors who abandoned ship.