Taiwan: Typhoon Hagupit causes casualties and damage as it intensifies on August 3

Event

On Monday, August 3, at least one individual was killed and one other injured as Typhoon Hagupit passed to the north of Taiwan. The two casualties were reported in Taipei, with a government employee drowning at a pumping station and a motorcyclist injured by a collision with a fallen tree. Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau has issued a warning for residents of coastal areas to remain alert in coming days as further heavy rainfall is expected. Areas of Taiwan are expected to receive up to 200mm (8 in) of rainfall. The storm is expected to make landfall in southern China late on Monday or early on Tuesday, August 4, before curving in a northeasterly direction and reemerging into the East China Sea.

Continued rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas are to be expected in Taiwan in the near term. An associated disruption to business, utilities, and transportation is likely.

Context

Taiwan's coastlines are highly vulnerable to storm systems during the rainy season from May to September. These storm systems have the potential to cause human casualties and mass displacement as well as result in travel and service delivery disruptions. Heavy downpours and strong winds, as well as associated floods and landslides, also frequently cause structural damage and lead to high economic losses.

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.