Taiwan Braces for Tropical Storm Talim

Soldiers are reinforcing dikes with sandbags and hundreds of villagers have evacuated their mountainous homes as a tropical storm nears Taiwan.

The Central Weather Bureau says tropical storm Talim was approaching southern Taiwan on Tuesday with winds of 83 kph (52 mph).

Heavy rain and strong wind are forecast Wednesday when Talim moves northwestward through the Taiwan Strait.

The military says thousands of soldiers are getting ready to help with flood control, evacuation and rescue efforts.

Ferry services were suspended and tourist attractions in scenic mountains across the island were closed Tuesday as heavy rain started and high waves were whipped up along the coasts.