Typhoon Haikui is gathering energy and could hit northern Taiwan as early as Sunday morning. Fishermen and residents of Taiwan’s Yilan County are getting ready.
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Fishermen tie up their boats in the Badouzi Harbor near Keelung. The harbor is completely full as boats flock to take refuge in preparation for Typhoon Haikui, expected to make landfall in Taiwan this weekend. But the crowded harbor doesn’t have enough room for all the boats, and some fishermen are struggling to find a spot to moor.
But securing a good spot isn’t the only concern. Fishing boats are lined with expensive equipment that can be easily damaged during a typhoon, such as specialized lightbulbs used to attract a catch. Many crews are using cases to protect the lights, but one fisherman says these bulbs can cost between NT$6000 and NT$10,000 each (US$190 to US$315).
Storm preparations have also begun in the city. Engineers have been sent out to measure the depths of drainage ditches and ensure the proper functioning of drainage pumps. These pumps will be essential to prevent flooding during heavy rains.
In the northeastern county of Yilan, thousands of sandbags are being provided to the public to help keep flooding at bay. People started arriving early in the morning on Friday to grab the heavy sandbags, some even being carried by scooter.
One thing is certain, residents of Taiwan’s picturesque northeast coast aren’t sitting idly by during this calm before the storm.