Taiwan’s Southern, eastern parts shut down ahead of arrival of Typhoon Podul  

Ahead of the landing of Typhoon Podul in Taiwan, a large swathe of its southern and eastern parts has shut down with thousands of people evacuated.
 
The mid-strength Typhoon Podul was heading for the southeastern city of Taitung as it intensifies and was expected to make landfall nearby by today afternoon, weather officials said.
 
Nine cities and counties announced the suspension of work and school for today, including the cancellation of all domestic flights.