Deep Dive
What is the weather forecast for Taiwan this week according to the podcast?
A cold air mass will affect Taiwan for the entire week, with temperatures dropping significantly. Northern and Yilan regions will experience colder weather starting from the afternoon, while other regions will feel the chill more noticeably at night. The week will alternate between dry and wet conditions: dry on Tuesday and Wednesday, wet on Thursday and Friday, and dry again on Saturday and Sunday. In dry conditions, temperatures in open areas, valleys, mountains, and coastal regions could drop below 10°C, with Matsu potentially reaching as low as 8°C.
Why is the air quality in Taiwan expected to be poor this week?
The air quality in Taiwan is expected to be poor due to the cold air mass moving southward, which has caused air pollution to spread across the island. Most areas are under yellow or orange alerts, with no regions reporting good air quality. Sensitive individuals are advised to take precautions when going outdoors.
What extreme weather conditions are affecting the United States?
The United States is experiencing its largest snowfall in a decade due to a polar vortex. Over 63 million people in the Midwest and East Coast are affected by heavy snow, ice, strong winds, and sudden temperature drops. States like Kansas, Nebraska, and Indiana are particularly impacted, with the National Weather Service issuing winter storm warnings for Kansas and Missouri. Wind speeds could reach up to 72.42 km/h, with snow accumulations of up to 8 inches.
What is the significance of the US blocking Japan's acquisition of US Steel?
The US blocked Japan's acquisition of US Steel, citing national security concerns. President Biden argued that maintaining a strong domestic steel industry is crucial for national security and critical supply chains. Japan's Minister of Economy expressed disappointment, stating that no credible evidence of a national security threat was provided. This decision reflects the US's prioritization of domestic industries under the 'America First' policy, even affecting allies like Japan.
What is the latest development in the Gaza conflict?
Hamas has indicated a willingness to release 34 Israeli hostages, primarily women, children, the elderly, and the sick, in exchange for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. However, Israel has not yet agreed to these conditions, leading to a stalemate. This development offers a potential breakthrough in the ongoing conflict.
What is the current situation in South Korea regarding President Yoon Suk-yeol?
South Korea is in political turmoil as the Public Prosecutors' Office attempts to arrest President Yoon Suk-yeol for alleged involvement in a state of emergency declaration. His supporters and security forces have resisted arrest attempts, leading to a standoff. Yoon plans to attend his impeachment trial on January 16, potentially becoming the first South Korean president to do so. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting South Korea to address the political crisis and maintain US-South Korea relations.
What is the controversy surrounding Taiwan's legislative reforms?
Taiwan's legislative reforms have sparked controversy, with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) accusing the Kuomintang (KMT) of being influenced by China. DPP legislator Ker Chien-ming has called for the impeachment of 41 KMT legislators and the Speaker of the Legislative Yuan, Han Kuo-yu, claiming that recent legislative actions are evidence of Chinese interference. The DPP plans to launch a large-scale recall campaign starting February 1, 2025, targeting KMT lawmakers.
- 一周寒流来袭
- 气温下降3-4度
- 北部持续低温
- 空气质量下降
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