Kaohsiung Mayor Warns of Intense Rainfall, Urges Public Vigilance

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai alerted residents via Facebook on Saturday morning to an impending deluge of heavy rainfall, urging them to exercise caution. The city government is on full alert as intense rain bands move in from the sea, with coastal areas expected to experience even stronger downpours. The mayor indicated that heavy rain is anticipated in flat areas within the next one to two hours, with potential hourly rainfall rates of 40-70 millimeters.

“

Intense rain is coming, and the city government is on full alert. We ask all citizens to be vigilant.

Chen emphasized that traffic safety is paramount, announcing a city-wide suspension of work and classes for the day. He advised drivers to use headlights, reduce speed, and maintain safe distances due to poor visibility. Residents are cautioned against driving through flooded roads. For those in low-lying or flood-prone areas, preparations such as sandbagging or deploying waterproof gates are recommended. Clearing leaves and debris from storm drains is also encouraged to ensure smooth drainage.

“

Traffic safety is the top priority. All city departments are suspended today. If you must go out, please pay attention to poor visibility in the rain, drive with headlights on, slow down, and maintain a safe distance.

The mayor also warned of potential landslides and falling rocks in mountainous regions and strong waves along the coast during the rainfall. He urged citizens to avoid activities in mountainous areas, rivers, and the sea for their safety. Any issues such as flooding, fallen trees, or other emergencies should be reported immediately by calling the 1999 citizen hotline.

“

For those living in low-lying or flood-prone areas, please prepare sandbags or set up waterproof gates. Also, please help inspect the surroundings of your homes, clear fallen leaves and debris from storm drains, and keep drainage unobstructed.