Taiwan: Sea warnings issued for Severe Tropical Storm Bailu August 23 /update 1

Event

Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau (CWB) issued offshore typhoon warnings for areas off of the southeastern coast on Friday, August 23, as Severe Tropical Storm Bailu continues moving towards the country. As of 11:00 (local time) on Friday, August 23, the storm is expected to make landfall in Taitung county on Saturday, August 24. Bailu is forecast to strengthen as it moves towards Taiwan and may become a typhoon before making landfall. The storm is expected to bring strong winds and rainfall amounts of 100-200 mm (4-8 in) as it approaches Taiwan.

As of 11:00 on Friday, Bailu is located approximately 18.6°N 125.7°E (map here) and is exhibiting maximum sustained wind speeds of 90 kph (56 mph). The storm is tracking west-northwest at a speed of 25 kph (16 mph). Flooding, landslides, power outages, and transportation disruptions, including flight delays and road closures, are possible across Taiwan over the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in areas forecast to be affected by the storm are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.