Overview of Reopening
Authorities in Taiwan’s 22 cities and counties announced plans for a significant reopening of schools and workplaces on Friday, following the passage of Typhoon Kong-rey. The typhoon, which made landfall in Taitung’s Chenggong Township, caused widespread disruptions but has now moved away from the island, prompting local governments to resume normal operations.
Impact of Typhoon Kong-rey
On Thursday, Taiwan experienced a “typhoon day” across the nation, leading to the suspension of classes and work. Although most regions will return to normalcy on Friday, some areas are still facing localized disruptions.
| Location | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Taipei | Open | Schools and workplaces resume operations. |
| New Taipei | Partial reopening | Certain districts will remain closed. |
| Taoyuan | Partial reopening | Some areas still suspended. |
| Kaohsiung | Partial reopening | Select townships remain closed. |
| Taitung | Open | Resuming classes and work. |
| Kinmen | Open | Normal schedule continues. |
| Lienchiang (Matsu) | Closed | Second “typhoon day” declared. |
Local Government Announcements
City and county officials in Taipei, Tainan, Chiayi, Hsinchu, and Keelung have confirmed that all administrative districts will resume operations on Friday. However, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, and Kaohsiung have reported that certain areas will remain closed for an additional day.
Weather Advisory
Despite the reopening, the Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued warnings for heavy rain to extremely torrential rain across various regions. The CWA has specifically noted that Hualien and Taitung counties, as well as mountainous areas in Yilan, Nantou, Taichung, and Hsinchu, are expected to experience the heaviest precipitation.
Casualties and Damage
Typhoon Kong-rey has resulted in at least one confirmed death and 73 injuries across Taiwan, according to the Central Emergency Operation Center (CEOC). The storm’s impact, characterized by strong winds and heavy rain, has raised concerns about infrastructure stability and safety in affected regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas will remain closed on Friday?
Certain districts within New Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, and Kaohsiung will not reopen. Please check with local authorities for specific locations.
Is it safe to return to work and school?
While the majority of locations are reopening, it is advisable to stay informed about weather conditions and heed any safety advisories from local authorities.
How is the government responding to the typhoon’s impact?
Local governments are assessing the damage and providing assistance to affected areas, with resources allocated for recovery and safety measures.
Conclusion
As Taiwan moves past the effects of Typhoon Kong-rey, the majority of residents will return to work and school on Friday. However, vigilance is essential as weather warnings remain in effect, and certain areas will continue to experience disruptions.
