Taiwan closed schools and offices and evacuated hundreds from vulnerable areas around the island ahead of a strong typhoon expected to hit its populated western coast.

Schools and offices were shut in Taiwan as Typhoon Krathon advanced toward its west coast from the Philippines. More than 7,000 people have been evacuated, and thousands of troops are on standby.

Super typhoon Krathon is bringing strong winds and heavy rains as it heads toward Taiwan, after drenching parts of northern Philippines.