Premier Mao Chi-kuo has called for vigilance as Typhoon Chan-hom closes in on Taiwan. Mao said that according to the Central Weather Bureau, the typhoon could pick up strength as it approaches. Rain and wind could be strongest on Friday, especially in northern and northeastern areas of Taiwan.
Cabinet Spokesman Sun Lih-chyun explained the government’s preparations on Mao’s behalf.
"Northern and northeastern areas, including Taipei City, New Taipei and the Taoyuan area could be seriously hit by the typhoon. If its path were to move slightly south, then central and southern areas could be affected too," said Sun.
"We’re asking for every unit to be on alert. The premier has also asked for the Central Emergency Operation Center and all units under the command of Interior Minister Chen Wei-zen to be fully prepared to implement disaster prevention measures," he said.
Meanwhile, Interior Minister Chen Wei-zen said that the typhoon’s path and intensity are similar to Typhoon Winnie in 1997. Typhoon Winnie brought torrential rain and landslides that caused the collapse of an apartment building in New Taipei City, causing 28 deaths. Chen is calling local governments to practice vigilance.
The weather bureau said it could issue a land warning as early as 8:30 pm on Thursday.