Two storm systems develop, one hurricane predicted ahead
Tropical Depression No. 21, currently situated 1,850km off the southeast coast, is predicted to intensify into a typhoon by the weekend and be named Mitag. Meanwhile, Tropical Depression No. 20, which formed about 600km south of Oluanpi, Taiwan, is expected to move northwest and make landfall on the coast of China's Guangdong Province by Saturday.
The radius of Tropical Depression No. 21 is expected to reach almost 200km. As for Tropical Depression No. 20, it is forecast to approach the southeast of Taiwan today and tomorrow, with heavy rain expected for eastern Taiwan and the Hengchun Peninsula. However, Tropical Depression No. 20 has a low chance of triggering a sea warning.
In response to these weather developments, schools and kindergartens in Taiwan will conduct evacuation drills organised by the Ministry of Education tomorrow. The drills, named "Survive Major Quakes, Build Resilience," aim to familiarise the public with correct responses during earthquakes and promote self-help, mutual aid, and cooperation between the government and civic groups.
The drills are taking place ahead of National Disaster Prevention Day on Sunday, the anniversary of the 921 Earthquake. The scenario assumes a magnitude 8.5 earthquake near the Ryukyu Trench off the east coast of Taiwan. The drills will include test alerts being sent to cellphones tomorrow as part of a drill to boost public preparedness for natural disasters. Messages would be sent in three stages: earthquake alert, tsunami warning, and tsunami warning cancellation.
In addition, a tsunami threat has been triggered by an assumed earthquake with a maximum intensity of "Upper 6" at 9:21am. It is worth noting that the possible tropical smoothie that could develop from Tropical Depression No. 21 would likely be named "Gabrielle," which is the name of the tropical storm currently active and expected to intensify into a hurricane around September 21, 2025, in the Atlantic basin during that period. Tropical Depression No. 21 is forecast to approach the southeast of Taiwan on Monday next week and pass through the Bashi Channel on Tuesday or Wednesday.
The emergency warning system drill, scheduled for tomorrow, is also a reminder for everyone to stay vigilant and prepared during these uncertain times. Stay tuned for further updates on the weather and disaster prevention measures.
