Typhoon hits Taiwan

Authorities evacuated villagers from landslide-prone areas in Taiwan and residents boarded up windows amid torrential rain and wind as Typhoon Jangmi roared towards the island last night.

The usually bustling capital of Taipei was eerily quiet with only a few cars on streets buffeted by the stormy weather.

CTI Television showed villagers evacuating the scenic mountain resort of Lushan in central Taiwan, clutching small bags of personal belongings.

The area was badly damaged when Typhoon Sinlaku hit two weeks ago, with massive mudslides destroying at least three hotels.

Hundreds of fishing boats sheltered at ports, and domestic flights and rail services were cancelled.