Northern Taiwan Declares Typhoon Holiday Despite Calm Weather, Accusing Mayor Chiang of 'Pandering to Voters'; Chen Feng-hsin Urges Public to Avoid Double Standards

In response to Typhoon Bavi's approach, northern regions including Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan, and Hsinchu announced a suspension of work and classes for today (the 10th). Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an explained the decision in a Facebook post late last night (the 9th), stating that this typhoon has the largest wind field in 25 years. Considering Taipei's high population density and commuting patterns, he decided to suspend operations on the 10th and urged citizens to use the typhoon holiday to prepare for disaster prevention.

However, criticism has emerged from some members of the public. Many argue that according to the Central Weather Bureau's forecast, wind and rain during the day did not meet the suspension criteria. Comments online include: 'They said strong winds and rain won't hit until late at night—why declare a holiday now?', 'Is a typhoon holiday now defined as sunny weather?', and 'This is just political pandering to voters.' In response, veteran media personality Chen Feng-hsin stated on the program 'Big News, Big Explosion' that 'People will complain whether you suspend or not—so it's better to prioritize safety.'

Chen emphasized that the timing of increased wind and rain coincides with commuting hours, the period when children are most vulnerable to accidents. She argued that while being criticized for declaring a holiday is manageable, if a child is harmed during a typhoon because schools and offices remained open, 'the government will be blamed for not suspending activities.'

Chen also criticized the public for applying double standards based on political affiliation. She pointed out that when counties governed by the Kuomintang (blue camp) make decisions, they are criticized regardless of whether they declare a holiday, but green-camp (DPP-led) counties are praised either way. She urged the public to approach typhoon holiday decisions scientifically rather than politically, stating that double standards only make the public look irrational.

Regarding the debate over half-day holidays, Chen argued that half-day suspensions are impractical. She noted that morning work offers little practical benefit, imposes high coordination costs on businesses, and increases the danger of midday traffic congestion. She also highlighted that Typhoon Bavi is located north of Taiwan, and its counterclockwise circulation will funnel strong winds along the Keelung and Tamsui Rivers, amplifying the impact. Therefore, decisions should not rely solely on meteorological data but must also consider topographical factors to avoid misjudgment.

Additional exclusive reports from Storm Media: · Over 20,000 military personnel deployed for disaster response; AAV7 amphibious assault vehicles and 2,000 rubber boats on standby. · Will Typhoon Bavi's landfall be delayed? Taiwan expects weather changes at a specific time; social media warns: 'Even if it looks mild, stay cautious.' · Latest updates on Typhoon Bavi: Did suspended counties fail to meet official criteria? A doctor reveals former Lai Qing-de once called: 'Typhoon holidays are becoming increasingly bizarre.'