Premier Lin Chun inspected the dedicated Central Emergency Operation Center this afternoon as a powerful storm front moved across Taiwan, lashing the northern part of the island with torrential rains. With serious flooding in some areas of Taipei City, New Taipei City and Keelung, leaving one dead and others missing, the premier called on local governments to be on high alert and maintain close contact with the central government to ensure effective implementation of flood preparedness and response measures.
As the storm front moves south, the central and southern parts of the island may also see heavy rains, which could lead to landslides in mountainous regions. So preventive measures are essential, the premier said, and any necessary evacuations should be completed before dark. In central and southern Taiwan, only Kaohsiung had carried out evacuations thus far, so he asked government agencies to monitor other at-risk districts closely.
In addition to triggering landslides, heavy rains may also cause floods in coastal and low-lying areas. Drainage pumps and flood-control materials are ready to go, so if the need arises, they must be deployed quickly and effectively, without fail, the premier said.
He also emphasized that disaster information has to be transparent and timely so that the public clearly understands fast-changing circumstances. This is especially true for water and electricity services and key infrastructure installations, so the government should provide prompt information and progress report updates, with strong predictive planning in place.
This year's spring rains have not only been particularly heavy, but will also continue for some time. The Central Weather Bureau has determined that the next three days will be critical, so the premier asked that government agencies remain vigilant so that the public can have confidence and peace of mind as they face the repercussions of this year's heavy rainfall. In closing, he also expressed sincere thanks for the timely efforts of the nation's front-line disaster prevention personnel.