Taiwan issues first 'mega wave' alert as Typhoon Bavi nears

Taiwan has issued its first-ever "mega wave" warning as Typhoon Bavi intensifies and approaches the island. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) issued the alert for coastal areas of Pingtung, Yilan, Hualien, and Taitung on the evening of July 9. This new warning system, introduced on July 1, is activated when giant waves exceeding 6 meters are anticipated along the coast and in nearby seas.

Typhoon Bavi is expected to make its closest approach to northern Taiwan in the early hours of July 11, bringing with it powerful winds and torrential rain. The CWA forecasts that waves along Taiwan's northern coast and offshore waters could reach heights of over 10 meters as the storm nears. Some areas, like Taitung and Lanyu Island on the east coast, have already recorded waves between 6 and 8 meters.

The typhoon's strong wind radius is estimated to be between 350 to 380 kilometers, with its cloud system extending widely, suggesting a significant impact across Taiwan. The CWA noted that the typhoon's wind field is the widest recorded for any typhoon that has issued a sea or land warning in Taiwan since 1995. The storm's center is projected to be about 300 kilometers from Taipei by early July 11.

In preparation for the typhoon, which has shown signs of strengthening, authorities have taken significant measures. Over 900 flights have been canceled across two days, primarily affecting Taoyuan International Airport. Taipei City announced the closure of government offices and schools. The Taiwan Stock Exchange suspended trading for the day, and TSMC postponed its June earnings announcement.