Typhoon affects 9 counties, triggering heavy rain alerts; flood warnings issued for Pingtung and Kaohsiung

Taiwan's Central Weather Administration has issued torrential downpour and heavy rain advisories for nine counties and cities across the island on July 25, as Typhoon No. 7 approaches and a front moves in, enhanced by strengthening southwesterly winds. These conditions are expected to bring short-duration, intense rainfall.

Pingtung County is forecast to experience localized torrential downpours or extremely heavy rain. Tainan and Kaohsiung cities are also bracing for localized heavy rain or torrential downpours. Additionally, Taipei, New Taipei, Chiayi, Penghu, and mountainous areas of Taitung may see localized heavy rain.

The weather agency cautioned the public to be aware of potential lightning strikes, strong gusts, and rising river levels. Low-lying areas are particularly susceptible to flooding. Residents in mountainous regions are advised to watch out for landslides and falling rocks.

In response to the anticipated rainfall, the Water Resources Agency has issued flood warnings. Pingtung County has areas under "Level 1 Alert" including Yanpu, Neipu, Ligang, Changzhi, and Pingtung City, with "Level 2 Alert" in Wanluan, Zhutian, Fangliao, and Chaozhou. In Kaohsiung City, Qishan District is under "Level 1 Alert," while Meinong and Dashu Districts are under "Level 2 Alert."