Super Typhoon Bawei Approaches; New Taipei Braces for Strongest Winds Friday Night to Saturday

Typhoon Bawei is intensifying and heading towards Taiwan, prompting New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih to convene a disaster preparedness meeting. He warned that the period between Friday night and Saturday will see the most severe weather, with strong winds and heavy rain expected to impact the city.

The mayor stressed the importance of thorough preparation, highlighting that recent typhoons have caused significant damage from strong gusts, including fallen trees and power lines. He urged city departments and district offices to complete self-inspection measures and pre-position equipment. The public has also been advised to exercise caution regarding traffic conditions and personal safety, and to avoid coastal areas due to potential long waves.

Weather analysis indicates that Bawei, currently a super typhoon north of Guam, is moving towards the waters east of Luzon. The storm is expected to bring gale-force winds of up to 13 on the Beaufort scale along the coast and 9 to 10 in urban areas. Rainfall is predicted to range from heavy to torrential, particularly in mountainous regions. Water reservoir levels at Shimen and Feitsui are noted, with potential urban flooding risks identified in several districts.