Typhoon Bawei Approaches Taiwan, 21 Cities Suspend Work and Classes; Department Stores Close Across the Island

Typhoon Bawei is rapidly approaching Taiwan, carrying the largest storm radius in 25 years at 380 kilometers. The Central Weather Administration forecasts landfall for early Saturday morning, with the storm's eye expected to engulf the entire island. Consequently, 21 cities and counties have announced suspensions of work and classes.

In response to the anticipated strong winds and heavy rainfall, department stores began announcing operational adjustments on Friday evening. Prioritizing the safety of their customers and staff, many have opted for temporary closures. Qsquare Fashion Plaza, including its transit hub mall, Zhongshan Jazz Square, and Xiaobitan store, will be closed on July 11 and plans to resume normal operations on July 12. Dayeh Takashimaya also stated it would close for the day on Saturday for safety reasons.

Further closures include Hongwell Plaza in New Taipei City, which will remain shut on July 11. Taipei 101 announced that its shopping mall, observatory, and high-rise restaurants will also suspend operations on Saturday, with updates to be posted on their official website and social media. Bellavita, located in the same Xinyi district, has also announced a closure, urging the public to reduce outdoor activities and prepare for the typhoon.

The Breeze Group will close all its locations, including Breeze Center, Breeze Nanjing, Breeze Xinyi, Breeze Songgao, Breeze Nanshan, Breeze Taipei Station, and Breeze Dong'an, for the entire day on July 11. Miramar Entertainment Park, which had partially suspended operations for its Ferris wheel and carousel on Friday, will close its department store, supermarket, Ferris wheel, and carousel all day Saturday. Gloria Outlets will also remain closed on Saturday to ensure the safety of customers and staff, and its planned "Summer Night Fantasy Parade" has been postponed.

SOGO department stores nationwide will also cease operations on July 11. iFG Yuanfong Plaza announced that its Xizhi, Hsinchu, and Taichung stores will be closed for the day. Eslite Spectrum stores in Songyan, Nanxi, Xindian, Taichung 480, and Tainan will also suspend business on Saturday.

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Reminding the public to take typhoon preparations, prioritizing personal safety.