Two major tropical storms are situated below Taiwan's southern coast. Lionrock is predicted to linger in the Taiwan Strait for a few days while Kompasu is headed off Taiwan's northeast coast. Of the two storms, Lionrock is most likely to be of concern to Taiwan as typhoons that move up the strait tend to persist longer than others.

It seems that Lionrock is veering off Taiwan's western coast into China, leaving Central and Northern Taiwan with what promises to be a wet weekend. Taiwan's southern region may not be so lucky. Kompasu is a non-issue at this point, staying well north of Taiwan aimed straight at Korea and Japan.

Lionrock battered the southern parts of Taiwan. Pingdong, Kaohsiung and Taidong were all placed on yellow alert. Flights to the area were cancelled, roads closed and many residents evacuated. Last year, Typhoon Morakot wreaked havoc on the same area.

• Central Weather Bureau of Taiwan - Taiwan Weather
• The Taipei Times - Lionrock lashes southern region

The effect that Severe Tropical Storm Chanthu had on Taiwan is not really worth mentioning. Chanthu does; however, mark the beginning of the 2010 typhoon season. With major damage caused by last year's giants, Linfa and Morakot, still fresh in our minds, Taiwan is hoping for a more peaceful typhoon season this year.

• Central Weather Bureau of Taiwan - Taiwan Weather

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