Why didn't mainland Taitung suspend work and classes?

The county assessed that the typhoon’s direct impact on the mainland would be limited.

Why did Lanyu and Green Island suspend operations?

As remote islands with limited evacuation options, they were deemed higher risk.

How did residents react?

They flooded social media with sarcastic 'guruguru' comments, sparking national attention.

Was Taitung’s decision justified?

It prioritized economic continuity but raised concerns over safety and public trust.

Will similar decisions be made in the future?

This incident may push for more transparent, data-driven decision-making standards.

Taitung County the Only Area in Taiwan Mainland to Remain Open on 11th as Typhoon Bavi Approaches; Magistrate Yao's Facebook Flooded with Complaints: 'Come Fly the Hot Air Balloon, Madam Mayor'

Published Jul 10, 2026 11:50 PM ・ Updated Jul 13, 2026 3:15 PM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: PR Times

As Typhoon Bavi approaches, Taitung County is the only region on Taiwan's mainland to maintain normal work and school operations on the 11th, sparking public backlash. Residents flooded County Magistrate Yao Ching-ling's Facebook with sarcastic comments like 'guruguru' and 'come fly the hot air balloon.'

Typhoon Bavi is approaching Taiwan, with the Central Weather Bureau maintaining both sea and land warnings. The strongest impacts are expected from the evening of the 10th through the 11th. While Taichung City and Nantou County announced work and school suspensions for the 11th as early as the evening of the 9th, only Lanyu and Green Island townships in Taitung County suspended operations, leaving the rest of Taitung County on Taiwan's mainland as the sole region continuing normal business and classes. This decision made Taitung the only county on the main island requiring people to work and attend school, triggering public frustration.

At 8 PM on the 10th, Taitung County Magistrate Yao Ching-ling posted on Facebook: 'Taitung County Government Announcement: Lanyu and Green Island suspend work and classes tomorrow; all other areas maintain normal operations.' She also shared an infographic urging residents to stay safe during the typhoon and avoid unnecessary outings.

The post quickly drew criticism from users, many of whom listed Taitung as their location. Comments included 'guruguru guruguru guruguru,' 'Luye isn’t suspending? Is the magistrate coming to host the hot air balloon festival?,' 'Why not cancel all events then? Let’s all work together—keep the hot air balloons flying!,' 'Guess whether going to work counts as necessary or unnecessary travel,' and 'If I get injured, who do I report to?'

The post also attracted attention from residents of other counties, with comments like 'Taitung people, you’ve got my respect—guruguru' and 'A resident from Miaoli has come on a pilgrimage—guruguru.'

More exclusive reports from Feng Media: · Typhoon is really coming! Bavi to bring strongest winds and rain on the 11th—expert reveals when Taiwan will exit the storm zone · Taipei’s typhoon day off causes losses for stock investors—Green legislator challenges: 'Who takes responsibility for economic damage?' Chiang Wan-an: 'We can’t underestimate typhoon impacts' · Beware financial loss! As Bavi approaches, 11 people caught surfing—Coast Guard urges: 'Don’t take risks,' fines up to NT$250,000

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Source: PR Times
Category: News

Taitung County the Only Area in Taiwan Mainland to Remain Open on 11th as Typhoon Bavi Approaches; Magistrate Yao's Facebook Flooded with Complaints: 'Come Fly the Hot Air Balloon, Madam Mayor'

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