4th Theater Command Pivots from Combat Drills to Disaster Relief Amidst Southern Taiwan Heavy Rains

KAOHSIUNG, Taiwan — Following convective weather systems driven by Typhoon Mekkhala, Southern Taiwan experienced intense rainfall starting early this morning. By this afternoon, units under the 4th Theater Command had shifted their mission profile from combat readiness drills to disaster prevention and preparedness. Liaison officers and prepositioned military personnel were deployed to the Meinong District Office to support emergency response operations.

According to the 4th Theater Command, this deployment serves to facilitate disaster prevention efforts and conduct proactive evacuations. The command emphasized that the military remains committed to both combat readiness and disaster relief, prioritizing the protection of public safety and property. Personnel are operating with a mandate of civil support, continuously refining disaster contingency plans and adjusting troop deployments in real-time based on evolving weather conditions.

Furthermore, regional coordination remains ongoing; the Pingtung County Reserve Command is working alongside the Chaozhou Township Office to monitor flood-prone areas, while the Taiwu Township Reserve Center has assisted local officials in sandbag deployment to mitigate flood risks. The military continues to coordinate closely with local government agencies to ensure a unified crisis response.