On an inspection of the Central Emergency Operating Center (CEOC) this evening, Vice Premier Mao Chi-kuo ordered government agencies to continue taking necessary precautions and to remain vigilant even though Soulik was downgraded from a severe typhoon to a typhoon. Disaster warning measures and precautionary evacuations must be implemented as the storm edges closer to Taiwan, he said.
Earlier at 8:30 p.m., the Central Weather Bureau (CWB) issued a land warning for the typhoon. The bureau is predicting 700 to 1,000 millimeters of precipitation for the island over the next two days. Intense rainfall poses the greatest threat, Mao said, therefore central and local governments cannot let their guards down.
"Based on its current path, Soulik could make landfall in Yilan or it could veer south. We will know better tomorrow morning. Regardless of where it lands, northern Taiwan will feel the brunt of the storm so all water facilities must be checked for proper working order. We will not tolerate any oversight," he emphasized.
According to the latest CWB data, Soulik will be closest to Taiwan early morning on July 13. Aside from Yilan County, other locales to be affected first such as Hualien County, New Taipei City, Taipei City and Taoyuan County should brace for strong winds, heavy rain and storm surges. As for central parts of the island, Taichung City, Nantou County, Yunlin County and Chiayi County should prepare for extremely torrential rain and flooding. All other areas should remain on the alert and take proper protective measures.
The CEOC urges local governments within heavy rain warning areas to intensify their evacuation efforts giving priority to moving the elderly and the infirm. Central and local authorities should continue monitoring the typhoon's movements and see to it that emergency personnel have contingency plans in place.
The CEOC again advises the public to stay watchful, follow Souli's developments and take needed precautions. In mountainous areas where roads may be washed out by flooding or landslides, citizens should cooperate with evacuation and road closing orders.