Taiwanese authorities are warning residents along the eastern coast to prepare for Super Typhoon Kong-rey, which has rapidly intensified after impacting the Philippines.

Now classified as a super typhoon by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, it boasts winds of 240 km/h (150 mph), akin to a Category 4 hurricane.

Forecasted to make landfall early Thursday in Taitung, the storm is expected to affect almost all of Taiwan as it moves northwest.

Warnings have been issued for over half the island’s counties due to potential flash flooding, storm surges, and landslides.

Taiwan’s military has mobilized 36,000 soldiers for rescue efforts, while more than 6,000 first responders are on standby, CNN has reported.

Green Island and Orchid Island have already suspended work and classes. Despite the preparations, most flights and ferries continue to operate normally.

Written by B.C. Begley