Taiwan may soon introduce extreme heat closures for schools and workplaces under a new proposal to amend the Meteorological Act. Officials want to legally classify high temperatures as hazardous weather to protect public safety. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) submitted a draft amendment for Cabinet review later this year. If approved, the law would create a system for responding to dangerous heat levels, similar to existing typhoon-day rules.
The CWA observed higher temperatures, humidity, and wind levels over recent years. In response, the Ministry of the Environment formed a task force to manage these rising risks. This group works with other agencies to create heat response plans. Currently, Taiwan uses a color-coded alert system for high temperatures. Yellow, orange, and red alerts warn the public based on heat intensity and duration. However, rising heat frequency has pushed the CWA to request stronger protections.
By defining extreme heat as “severe weather,” authorities could suspend work and classes more easily. This power already exists during natural disasters when transport, water, or power outages threaten public safety. Some local governments already act on these trends. For example, Taichung City is developing green spaces and wetlands on unused land. These projects reduce urban temperatures and combat the heat island effect.
In New Taipei City, schools adjust outdoor activities and classroom cooling in response to heat alerts. They also provide hydration and first aid. Officials there suggested creating extreme heat closures when temperatures exceed 38°C for three straight days. Meanwhile, in Kaohsiung, a city councilor warned that summer heat often feels like 40°C or more. He called for work stoppages during red alerts, especially for outdoor workers like construction crews and delivery staff.
Many laborers in fields, ports, and industrial zones face real dangers during these heat waves. Without formal protections, their health remains at risk. In conclusion, Taiwan is preparing new legal tools to manage rising heat threats. If passed, the amendment would make extreme heat closures a standard response, ensuring safety during dangerous weather events.
