Taiwan: Tropical storm Nesat to strengthen into typhoon July 28

Event

Tropical storm Nesat is expected to strengthen into a typhoon before making landfall along the eastern-central coast of Taiwan on Saturday, July 29. Heavy rain is forecast to spread across Taiwan on Friday evening, July 28.

Up to 20-25 cm (10-20 in) of precipitation is expected in mountainous areas and 20 cm (4-8 in) in the more populated southwestern areas. Damaged bridges and road closures may also cut off access to certain mountainous areas.

Wind gusts of up to 175 km/h (110 mph) could cause widespread damage along the eastern coast. The forecasted track of the typhoon should spare Taipei, although localized flooding and wind-induced damage – such as tree damage and power outages – are likely.

Public transportation will be severely disrupted. General delays should be expected on the Taipei MRT and the Maokong Gondola cable car. Ferry services are disrupted and passenger ships from Suao to Hualian are not operational as of Friday, July 28. Additional closures are expected between Kaohsiung and Makung City, as well as between Putai and Makung. Delays are to be anticipated on all ships to and from Penghu. Some dozen trains linking Taipei and Fulong have been suspended in both directions.

Context

The rainy season (monsoon season) in Taiwan runs from June until October.

Advice

Individuals in Taiwan are advised to confirm all travel reservations, to allow for extra time to reach their destinations, to keep abreast of weather forecasts, and to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products.