Taiwan: Heavy rainfall forecast as Tropical Storm Bavi passes August 22-23

Event

Tropical Storm Bavi is moving northward off the east coast of Taiwan as of Saturday, August 22. Although the storm is not expected to make landfall, the Central Weather Bureau (CWB) has issued sea typhoon warnings and heavy rain advisories for 11 counties, including the capital Taipei, until at least Sunday, August 23. Advisories and warnings are also in place for several eastern, central and southern counties.

Heavy rainfall and resultant flooding are possible over the coming days, along with associated disruptions to business and transport.

Context

Tropical storms can form in the Pacific Ocean at any time of year, although most typhoons occur during a peak season between June and November. Given Taiwan's high vulnerability to storm systems, a comprehensive regulatory regime is in place to ensure that the island is fully prepared to tackle the adverse effects on typhoons and other meteorological hazards. The island's disaster management protocols are also periodically reviewed to improve their implementation, although particularly powerful storm systems can overwhelm preparedness measures.

Advice

Those in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.