Taiwan’s Reservoir Water Levels Rise After Typhoon-Induced Rainfall

People make their way in a rain ahead of the approaching Typhoon Hinnamnor in Taipei, Taiwan, on Sept. 3, 2022. (Chiang Ying-ying/AP Photo)

Two major reservoirs in northern Taiwan, Shimen and Feitsui, have seen an increase in water levels as a result of heavy rain associated with Typhoon Hinnamnor, relieving water shortage in the areas.

Feitsui reservoir’s water level increased to 76.2 percent of its capacity, as of Sept. 1, accumulating 60 million tons of water sufficient for the remainder of the year, according to Taiwan’s Water Resources Agency (WRA).

The Shihmen reservoir is nearly full, with its water level increasing by 19 percent, to 94 percent of its capacity last week, Taiwan News reported.

Reservoirs across the island were filled with 164 million tons of water due to the typhoon, and 192 million tons more are expected to fill the reservoirs over the next few days, according to the agency.

Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau issued a land warning on Sept. 3 as the typhoon moved north at 16 kilometers per hour (9 mph) and passing waters east of Taiwan. A heavy rain advisory was also issued in several areas.

About 181 damages were reported on Sept. 3 due to the typhoon, including 98 reports of downed trees, Focus Taiwan reported, citing Taiwan’s Central Emergency Operation Center.

The storm also triggered a landslide in Miaoli County and power outage in northern parts of Jianshi Township. No injuries have been reported so far.

Typhoon Hinnamnor Hits South Korea

South Korea raised its typhoon alert to its highest level on Sept. 5, as approaching Typhoon Hinnamnor forced flight cancellations, the suspension of some business operations, and the closure of schools.

Heavy rain and strong wind pounded the southern part of the country as the typhoon approached from the south at a speed of 33 kilometers per hour (20.5 mph).

The typhoon is expected to make landfall southwest of the port city of Busan early on Tuesday, Sept. 6, after hitting Jeju island on Monday.

President Yoon Suk-yeol said he would be on emergency standby, a day after ordering authorities to do their best to minimize damage from the typhoon.

“Very strong winds and heavy rains are expected across the country through to Tuesday due to the typhoon, with very high waves expected in the coastal region along with storm and tsunami,” the Korea Meteorological Administration said.

No casualties have been reported, though more than 100 people have been evacuated and some facilities have been damaged by floods.

Reuters contributed to this report.