Taiwan issues heavy rain, thunderstorm warnings for 20 counties as Typhoon Mikala approaches

Taiwan's Meteorological Agency has issued severe weather warnings across 20 counties and cities, anticipating heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The adverse weather conditions are attributed to Typhoon Mikala moving northward, an approaching cold front, and a strengthening southwest monsoon.

Six counties in central and southern Taiwan are currently under immediate severe thunderstorm alerts. Residents in these areas are cautioned about potential short-term heavy downpours, strong gusts, lightning strikes, and the risk of flash floods, landslides, falling rocks, and water accumulation in low-lying areas. The agency also issued specific disaster prevention alerts for Changhua and Yunlin counties.

In addition to the rainfall and thunderstorm warnings, the Water Resources Agency has issued flood warnings for 37 areas spanning five counties, including central Taiwan, Yunlin, and Chiayi. Some of these areas are under Level 1 or Level 2 flood alerts, indicating a significant risk of inundation. The agency continues to monitor the situation closely as the weather system impacts the island.