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The unique topography condition of Taiwan where steep slopes and short, narrow rivers causes the rain precipitation to flow from upstream to downstream to within a few hours, resulting in massive flooding everytime a typhoon or heavy rainstorm occurs. In addition, the greenhouse effect from global warming increases the frequency and levels of rainfall which increases the flooding that occurs having a serious impact to people’s lives and property. For example, the combination of the northeast monsoon and typhoon season brings forth heavy rainstorms in Hualien city every year resulting in loss of life and extensive property damages from the flooding and mudslide. This is mainly due to the climate change from the greenhouse effect. In 2009, Taiwan was devastated by typhoon Morakot, that left a trail of destruction and a strong imprint in people’s mind. Consequently, the “Potential Hazardous Flood Prevention Program” was created with high importance. The programs mandate is to investigate and find high risk flooding areas so that a comprehensive, save and feasible plan can be put in place to protect the lives of people and their properties. The program also plans evacuation routes and procedures, designate safe buildings, devise emergency procedures and to integrate local resources to effectively utilize them to limit the scope of the disaster. Although these engineering measures have limitations, the hope is that they can help to raise awareness in disaster prevention in the communities, to implement national disaster centres and coordinate emergency procedures. The objective of this paper is to prevent and reduce the loss of life and property.
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