Taiwan to launch heat relief map in July

Taipei, May 16 (CNA) Taiwan's Ministry of Environment will launch an "anti-heat map" in July to help people find air-conditioned places where they can escape the summer heat, Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) said Thursday.

The map will be one of the first efforts of the new Taiwan Anti-Heat Strategy Alliance, bringing together the central and local governments, along with the private sector.

The alliance will be officially launched in June and will focus on helping people cope with extreme heat, Peng said at a press conference.

By 2026, the alliance plans to offer public access to facilities that provide shelter during heatwaves. Those locations will be listed on the digital map, Peng said.

The alliance will also identify vulnerable groups -- such as seniors living alone -- and work with local governments to ease their exposure to heat, he said.

Businesses will be encouraged to promote "anti-heat" products, including offering discounts on relevant home appliances, Peng said.

Taiwan's Central Weather Administration began publishing heat warnings in June 2018.

A yellow alert signals temperatures above 36 degrees Celsius, while an orange alert indicates highs above 36 degrees for three consecutive days or any day above 38 degrees. A red alert is issued when temperatures top 38 degrees for more than three days in a row.