Work and classes suspended, residents evacuated from vulnerable areas as Typhoon Gaemi approaches Taiwan
Stop work and class orders have been issued in many municipalities, including the nation’s capital Taipei, as Typhoon Gaemi approaches Taiwan’s east coast, bringing heavy rain and potentially destructive winds.
Taipei City Government announced stop work orders for all agencies and schools for Wednesday, July 24, based on the weather forecast data issued by the Central Weather Administration. Taipei City Mayor Chiang Wan-an said that Taipei City is expected to be within the storm radius of Beaufort-Scale level 7 winds from early morning Wednesday, and heavy rainfall is also expected.
Mayor Chiang said that that the decision was made among the four heads of the municipalities of Taipei City, New Taipei City, Keelung City, and Taoyuan City, to stop work and classes in order to protect the safety of commuters.
Chiang also said that a Level-One disaster response center will convene later this evening with all bureaus on standby to respond to potential disasters brought by wind and rain.
Work and classes have also been suspended in Hsinchu County, Hsinchu City, Miaoli County, Chiayi County, Tainan City, Kaohsiung City, Pingtung County, Yilan County, Hualien County, Penghu County, and Lianjiang County.
Residents evacuated from vulnerable areas
The Hualien County government has launched a Level-One disaster response center and started evacuating residents from areas vulnerable to landslides, floods, and other disasters Tuesday. In Xiulin Township, more than 1,000 residents were evacuated to emergency accommodation centers.
The Hualien County government urged people to avoid mountain areas, streams, and the seaside. Residents are urged to stay indoors with windows and doors closed, and avoid going out unless absolutely necessary.
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