Typhoon Bavi Approaches: President Lai Inspects Disaster Center, Monitors Barrier Lakes

President Lai Ching-te visited the Central Emergency Operation Center on July 10 to oversee preparations for Typhoon Bavi, the first typhoon to directly impact Taiwan this year. He stressed the critical need for close collaboration between national and local authorities to manage the impending storm.

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Typhoon Bavi is approaching fiercely. It is the first typhoon to enter Taiwan this year. Central and local governments must cooperate closely.

Lai specifically directed attention to the water levels of barrier lakes in Hualien, such as Wanli Creek and Mataian Creek, identifying them as key areas for monitoring. He mandated that preventative evacuations be carried out in high-risk zones. The president noted that central and northern mountainous regions could receive up to 900 millimeters of rain, underscoring the necessity of enhanced cooperation.

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The water level changes of the barrier lakes in high-risk areas, including Hualien's Wanli Creek and Mataian Creek, are a key focus of typhoon prevention. Relevant units must effectively implement preventative evacuations.

The military has mobilized over 20,000 personnel, along with necessary equipment and vehicles, to support disaster relief efforts. The Ministry of National Defense has already stationed troops in flood-prone areas as a precautionary measure. Lai also called on the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Ministry of Transportation to ensure the readiness of water, electricity, and communication services.

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The cumulative rainfall in the mountainous areas of the central and northern regions this time may reach 600 to 900 millimeters. Central and local governments must strengthen cooperation.