Taiwan: Transport disruptions ahead of Typhoon Mitag September 30 /update 3

Event

Several airlines have announced dozens of domestic and international flight cancelations to and from Taiwan on Monday, September 30, including Huaxin, Lirong, and Far Eastern airlines. As of early morning on Monday, local transport authorities have reportedly suspended some ferry services, and closed several highways across the island. They have also closed schools and offices in the affected areas. Further business and transport disruptions are expected.

As of 08:00 (local time) on Monday, Tropical Storm Mitag is located at approximately 21.7°N 123.2°E (map here). Mitag is moving northwest at 15 kph (9 mph) and is forecast to impact Taiwan's eastern coast in the evening on Monday, before turning north towards China, South Korea, and Japan. Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau (CWB) issued extremely heavy rain warnings for New Taipei City, Yilan County, and Taoyuan City, as well as rain warnings in Taipei City, Keelung City, Hsinchu County, Hsinchu City, Miaoli County, Taichung City, and Hualien County at 05:35 on Monday. CWB also issued sea warnings for East Bashi Channel, West Bashi Channel, the Sea of North Taiwan, the Sea of Northeast Taiwan, the Sea of Southeast Taiwan, and North Taiwan Strait early on Monday morning. While not forecast to make landfall in Taiwan, authorities are anticipating heavy rain, strong winds, and significant storm surge throughout the island, particularly in northern areas including Taipei.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, 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.