Taiwan: Typhoon land warnings issued August 7 /update 1

Event

Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau (CWB) issued sea and land warnings on Wednesday, August 7, as Typhoon Lekima continues to move towards the country. Land warnings are in effect for Keelung, Yilan county, New Taipei City, Taipei City, and Hualien county. As of 08:30 (local time) on Thursday, August 8, Lekima is forecast to pass northeastern Taiwan on Friday, August 9, before moving towards southeastern China. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to central and northeastern Taiwan and preparations are ongoing to prevent flooding along the country’s east coast. All riverside parking areas in Taipei City will be closed from 07:00 on Thursday until the storm passes. Highway officials also warned that parts of Provincial Highways 2, 7, and 9 may be closed as a precaution.

As of Thursday morning, Typhoon Lekima is located at approximately 22.35 °N 126°E (map here), with a maximum wind speed of 155 kph (96 mph). The storm is moving northwest at 14 kph (9 mph) and officials have warned that it may move further east in the coming hours. Flooding, landslides, power outages, and transportation disruptions, including flight delays and road closures, are possible across Taiwan in the coming days.

Advice

Individuals in areas forecast to be affected by the storm are advised to monitor local weather reports, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.