Typhoon Bavi Shutdown in Taipei Causes Investor Losses; Green Legislator Questions Economic Responsibility; Chiang Wan-an: Typhoon Impact Cannot Be Ignored

As powerful Typhoon Bavi approaches Taiwan, several counties and cities—including Taipei, New Taipei, Keelung, and Taoyuan—suspended work and classes today (the 10th), causing Taiwan's financial markets to close for one day. However, since the Taiwan Stock Index futures closed higher in after-hours trading last night at 46,281 points, many investors had anticipated favorable market movements today. The suspension of trading due to the typhoon holiday has sparked online discussions.

Some investors took to social media platforms to complain, with comments such as 'lost hundreds of thousands' and 'Chiang Wan-an, give me back my money.' Others argued that since Taiwan's stock market now has electronic trading systems, a full market shutdown may not be necessary unless extreme weather or widespread power outages occur, even if local governments declare work and school closures. On the other hand, some netizens offered a more balanced view: 'Unsold holdings are just paper wealth anyway,' and 'Look on the bright side—at least the market won't drop today.'

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator Chiu I-ying posted on the social platform Threads today, acknowledging the importance of disaster prevention but criticizing the decision to declare holidays without meeting official suspension criteria. She called it 'a clear sign of lacking resilience and decision-making ability' and questioned who would be held accountable for the economic losses caused by such 'unjustified work and school suspensions.'

Chen Chih-han, director of the Taiwan People's Party legislative caucus, also stated that if the typhoon's eye had not made landfall by afternoon, the decision to suspend operations should have been more rational. These discussions have expanded the typhoon holiday debate from a disaster preparedness issue into broader concerns about local leadership decisions, stock market operations, and economic costs.

In response to criticism, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an addressed the issue this afternoon while inspecting a pumping station in Shezi Island. He emphasized that Typhoon Bavi has the largest wind field in 25 years, primarily affecting northern Taiwan. Meteorological teams have repeatedly warned that the potential damage to Taipei could be comparable to that of Typhoons Soudelor or Aere in 2015.

Chiang stressed that the city government cannot afford to underestimate the severe impact typhoons may have on citizens and must prepare thoroughly, 'planning for the worst-case scenario.' He urged residents to use the work and class suspension period to complete typhoon preparedness measures, avoid unnecessary outings, and ensure personal safety.

Additional exclusive reports from Wind Media: · Over 20,000 military personnel on disaster alert for Typhoon Bavi, with AAV7 amphibious assault vehicles and 2,000 rubber boats on standby · Will Typhoon Bavi delay landfall? Taiwan expects dramatic weather changes at this time; fan page warns: 'Even if it looks weaker, caution is still needed' · Latest updates on Typhoon Bavi: Did suspended-work counties fail to meet criteria? Doctor reveals Lai Qing-de once called: 'Typhoon holidays are becoming increasingly bizarre'