NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) said Tuesday (Oct. 1) that the announcement of the suspension of school and work days amid the approaching Typhoon Krathon (山陀兒) was due to predictions issued by the Central Weather Administration (CWA, 氣象署).
On Wednesday (Oct. 2), all 22 counties and cities in Taiwan declared a typhoon day off. This includes Taipei City, Keelung City, New Taipei City, and Taoyuan City, which are not currently in the warning zone, sparking debate.
Weather Facebook page "Talking Typhoons with Facts" (用事實說颱風) noted that only half of Taiwan's counties and cities experienced winds strong enough to meet the day-off criteria, with significant rainfall limited to Kaohsiung and Hualien.
However, Hou explained that the CWA reported late Tuesday evening that the city could fall within the sea warning range at night and the land warning range early Wednesday morning.
Hou stated that New Taipei City will be most affected by Typhoon Krathon from late Tuesday evening until the day after tomorrow.
The northern region's four mayors decided to close schools and offices as a precaution. On Oct. 1, Typhoon Krathon stalled, causing headaches for meteorologists and experts worldwide.
Hou reminded residents that, as of 9 p.m. last night, cross-river gates and embankment pathways were exit-only and closed by 10 p.m.
Towing began at 8 p.m. The Bitan East Bank and nearby parking lots also enforced exit-only policies and towing from 8 p.m., with nearby roads allowing temporary parking without charge.