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.<br /><br />Typhoon Kong-rey blew near the northernmost Philippine province of Batanes before slamming into southeastern Taiwan.<br /><br />Thousands of residents were evacuated, and flights were canceled, as Taiwan braced for the impact. (Associated Press)