Taiwan: Adverse weather forecast across much of Taiwan through at least Jan. 24

Adverse weather conditions are forecast across much of Taiwan through at least Jan. 24. Heavy rainfall is forecast in northern regions through Jan. 23 and strong winds and cold temperatures are forecast across much of the country through early Jan. 24. As of Jan. 22, the Taiwan Central Weather Bureau has issued orange (second-lowest level on a four-tier scale) advisories for extremely heavy rain in the Keelung North Coast, encompassing Keelung City and northern coastal areas of New Taipei City, as well as in mountainous parts of Tapei City. Yellow heavy rain advisories have been issued for the rest of New Taipei and Taipei cities and across Yilan County. Strong wind advisories have also been issued for all coastal areas, with the exception of some eastern, northeastern, and southwestern coasts. Orange and yellow warnings for large waves and swells are in place for parts of the north coast. Orange cold surge advisories are in place across northern and parts of western Taiwan and yellow cold surge advisories have been issued for the rest of western and across central and eastern Taiwan. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts in the coming days.

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.

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. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic.

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.