With fresh memories of the destruction caused by Typhoon Mangkhut in 2018, residents of Tai O are stacking sandbags to build their defenses as Super Typhoon Ragasa draws near.
In response to the approaching storm, the government and local organizations have been actively implementing precautionary measures, including setting up flood prevention infrastructure, clearing drains, disseminating typhoon alerts and safety information, distributing emergency supply kits, and moving furniture and appliances to a safe place.
Residents were also on high alert, lining sandbags at the entrances of homes and shops.
Meanwhile, police, firefighters, and Civil Aid Service personnel were stationed throughout the area, with the Tai O Rural Committee opening a temporary shelter for those in need.
Lai, a resident who lives in a stilt house, recalled how his home was flooded to waist height during Mangkhut. He shared that he has secured items along the waterfront and moved essential belongings to higher ground in preparation for Typhoon Ragasa.
Meanwhile, Ng -- a grocery store owner who also experienced flooding during Mangkhut -- noted that he collected sandbags earlier with the help of community members and set them up at his store entrance.
The Observatory has warned that the significant storm surge could raise sea levels to heights similar to those seen during Typhoon Hato in 2017 and Typhoon Mangkhut in 2018.
The forecaster added that water levels could rise by about 2 meters, with maximum levels potentially reaching 3.5 to 4 meters above the chart datum.
