Taichung City Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) decided to cut short her U.S. visit and return to Taiwan as Typhoon Gaemi continues to bear down on the island nation.
On Wednesday, Lu addressed criticisms during an interview saying rapidly changing weather conditions prompted her decision. She said upon receiving updates that Taichung would likely enter the storm’s trajectory, she decided to return and lead typhoon preparedness efforts.
During a meeting at the Taichung City Emergency Response Center, Lu pointed out that Typhoon Gaemi is shaping up to become the largest typhoon in recent years. Predictions suggest wind speeds exceeding a 10 on the Beaufort scale (between 89 - 102km/h) in coastal areas of Taichung. Rainfall in mountainous areas could exceed 400 to 500 millimeters and over 100 millimeters in flat areas.
Lu said that Taichung City will be most affected from Wednesday afternoon until Thursday. She emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and readiness, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel. She also gave reminders to prepare for the storm by storing food, water, and taking flood prevention measures.
Mayor Lu said that both her visit to the U.S. and typhoon preparedness are crucial municipal responsibilities. Not all members of the visiting delegation have returned to Taiwan, with some continuing their planned activities abroad. Lu was originally scheduled to visit the U.S. from July 22 to 31 to promote Taichung City and strengthen ties with its 16 sister cities and two friendship cities.