16 Jan 2023 | 01:37 AM UTC
Taiwan: Adverse weather forecast across northern regions through at least Jan. 18
Heavy rainfall forecast across parts of northern Taiwan through at least Jan. 18. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall is forecast across portions of northern Taiwan through at least Jan. 18. As of early Jan. 16, the Taiwan Central Weather Bureau has issued an orange (second-lowest level on a four-tier scale) extremely heavy rain advisory over the Keelung North Coast, encompassing Keelung City and northern coastal areas of New Taipei City, as well as a yellow heavy rain advisory for Yilan County. Daily rainfall totals exceeding 20 cm (8 inches) or three hourly rainfall accumulations of more than 10 cm (4 inches) are possible in the orange warning area and daily totals exceeding 8 cm (3 inches) and three hourly accumulations of more than 4 cm (1.5 inches) are possible in the yellow warnings area. Rainfall is forecast to persist over northern Taiwan through at least Jan. 18. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts in the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
