Hikers should check weather forecasts and assess risks before heading into the mountains, as spring-to-summer monsoon rains between April and May heighten the danger of flash floods and landslides, the Nantou branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency said.
Taiwan often experiences steady rain and sudden heavy downpours during the transition from spring to summer.
In the mountains, this can cause streams to overflow, raising the risks of flash floods and landslides.
Photo: Taipei Times
Summer is the peak season for hiking, but also the time when weather is the most unstable and risks are highest, the branch said.
Before heading into the mountains, people should apply for the appropriate mountain and park entry permits, check road access and relevant restrictions, and confirm that route conditions are safe, it said.
It is best to go with an experienced leader familiar with the terrain and ensure that everyone has basic high-altitude hiking skills, good physical fitness and essential wilderness survival skills, it added.
The branch advised hikers to take four precautionary steps before departing.
First, check local weather forecasts and disaster warnings to ensure good conditions for hiking.
Second, inform family and friends of the hiking itinerary and comply with relevant mountain and park entry regulations.
Third, prepare essential gear such as communication devices, headlamps, waterproof and warm clothing, food, maps and power banks.
Fourth, avoid traveling alone, choose routes appropriate to one’s physical condition and ensure that team members have basic first aid and emergency response skills.
Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, the branch said, adding that if conditions worsen during an outing, hikers should stop, seek shelter in a safe location and reach out for help.
In an emergency, people can call rescue hotlines such as 119, 110 or 112, it added.
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