Meteorologist slams 'alarmist' calls to stockpile food for Typhoon Bailu

Meteorologist Dai Li-gang has strongly refuted advice for citizens to stockpile food and water in anticipation of Typhoon Bailu, labeling such recommendations as "alarmist nonsense."

During a program appearance, Dai questioned the logic behind extensive stockpiling, stating, "What are you doing, preparing for war?" He emphasized that typhoons usually dissipate within half a day to a day, rendering the need for three days' worth of supplies excessive. "If you can't buy anything, just go to the 7-Eleven down the street. There will be water," he asserted, criticizing the notion that Taipei needs to stockpile for three days as if the world were ending.

Dai also addressed the sensationalized descriptions of Bailu circulating online, such as "devil's strongest" or "strongest in history." He calmly reminded the public that typhoons are officially categorized only as "light," "moderate," or "strong," urging people not to frighten themselves unnecessarily.

Meanwhile, the Central Weather Administration reported that Typhoon Bailu is currently located at 14.0 degrees North latitude and 146.1 degrees East longitude, moving steadily northwest at 21 kilometers per hour. The typhoon is in a region of high oceanic heat content, which is expected to cause its radius to expand and potentially strengthen further within 48 hours. The exact path remains uncertain, depending on the strength of the high-pressure system in the coming days. However, Taiwan is expected to experience the most significant impact from the typhoon and its outer bands on Friday and Saturday, with potential for heavy to torrential rain across the island, particularly in the north and east.