Taiwan mobilised nearly 40,000 troops on Tuesday 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.

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.

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