TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan issued a cold weather alert for 13 counties on Monday (Jan. 12) as 329 cardiac arrests linked to winter conditions have occurred nationwide this year. A continental cold air mass brings dangerous conditions across the island. The Central Weather Administration (中央氣象署) warned of chilly conditions in northern and northeastern Taiwan, with other regions experiencing cold mornings and evenings. Health officials urge residents to monitor symptoms as winter cold claims lives.
Temperatures will remain between 11 and 15 degrees Celsius (51.8°F to 59°F) despite the cold air mass weakening throughout the day, the Central Weather Administration noted. Northern and northeastern areas may see slight warming, but western regions face significant temperature swings between day and night. The agency advised residents to dress in layers and take precautions against the cold, particularly during morning and evening hours.
The National Fire Agency (消防署) reported 329 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests nationwide this year as of Sunday (Jan. 11). The past three days recorded 102 cases: 32 on Friday (Jan. 9), 35 on Saturday (Jan. 10), and 35 on Sunday (Jan. 11). Dr. Huang Hsuan (黃軒), a thoracic and critical care specialist, stated that cardiovascular diseases, particularly acute myocardial infarction, account for approximately 80% of winter sudden deaths.
Dr. Kao Cheng-kuo (高正國) from Kuang Tien General Hospital (光田醫院) emphasized that chronic diseases often precede sudden deaths, raising the risk of vascular events. He advised the public to monitor symptoms closely and seek immediate help if abnormalities occur. Regular blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring, proper hydration, and maintaining comfortable temperatures remain crucial during cold weather, the doctor added.