Taiwan Suspends Classes and Work in Several Areas Due to Torrential Rains

Torrential rains have prompted the suspension of classes and work in several parts of Taiwan, leading to widespread flooding and precautionary evacuations. The Central Meteorological Administration issued warnings for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across various regions, including Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Taitung, Hualien, and Chiayi.

In Kaohsiung, over 2,200 people were evacuated from mountainous areas prone to landslides as of Sunday afternoon. Pingtung reported 115 residents relocated due to similar concerns. The heavy downpours have caused significant disruptions, with images showing a vehicle nearly submerged in Kaohsiung, though its occupants were rescued. A fallen tree also temporarily halted the service of a light rail train in the city.

Roads in Pingtung were affected by flooding and fallen trees, with one section closed as a precaution. The Meteorological Administration attributed the severe weather to a low-pressure system and strong southwest winds, warning of risks including lightning, intense gusts, low-lying area flooding, landslides, and flash floods. The situation is expected to stabilize by Wednesday.

However, the outlook from Thursday onwards depends on the trajectory of Typhoon Saudel. The storm could pass near Taiwan between Thursday and Friday, potentially bringing increased rainfall, particularly to the northern parts of the island. Typhoons are a common occurrence in the region during summer and autumn, often causing significant damage and disrupting economic activity.