TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A cold snap has gripped Taiwan, with 134 people requiring medical attention for non-traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) over the past three days due to dropping temperatures to unseasonably low levels, the National Fire Agency (內政部消防署) reported on Tuesday (Dec. 17).
The surge in OHCA cases is an alarming trend that coincides with the forecast of sub-10°C temperatures in five counties starting Wednesday. The agency advised citizens to stay warm and cautious of the day-to-night temperature fluctuations.
The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署) indicated that the phenomenon of radiative cooling has led to a significant drop in temperatures across the island. Residents in Hsinchu County (新竹縣), Miaoli County (苗栗縣), Taichung City (臺中市), Changhua County (彰化縣), and Nantou County (南投縣) should brace for the coldest conditions during the early morning hours.
They emphasized the importance of proper ventilation when using gas water heaters and electric heaters to ensure electrical safety. Additionally, the department warned that cold weather could exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, urging outdoor workers to enhance their cold-weather precautions to avoid prolonged exposure.
