A sharp temperature drop in central Taiwan has sent a surge of patients to hospitals with acute myocardial infarction and other emergency conditions.
Taiwan's subtropical climate keeps temperatures relatively high year-round, with winter readings rarely falling below freezing. As a result, residents face elevated risks of hypothermia and cardiovascular disease when temperatures drop below 10 degrees Celsius.
In Changhua County, 45 people were transported to emergency rooms over a 32-hour period with acute myocardial infarction or other acute conditions, local media Liberty Times reported Monday. Three patients were in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) before reaching the hospital. The oldest patient was an 88-year-old woman.
Taiwan's Central Weather Administration said cold air flowing in from China pushed temperatures in Changhua County to 14-18 degrees Celsius on Saturday and Sunday, with wind chill readings of 10-18 degrees. Strong northeasterly winds triggered gusts across the island, and the combination of high humidity and strong winds created severe cold conditions.
Changhua County's fire department said all cardiac arrest cases occurred in the late night or early morning hours. However, authorities have not confirmed whether all 45 patients' conditions were directly related to the cold snap.
Taichung City also saw a wave of acute illness cases. According to the city's fire department, 17 patients were rescued and transported in the 24 hours from 8 a.m. Saturday to 8 a.m. Sunday. Eight were in cardiac arrest before reaching the hospital due to acute myocardial infarction or severe physical distress. Patient ages ranged from 51 to 87.
Fire authorities urged residents to take extra precautions to stay warm, noting that most emergency cases occurred during late night and early morning hours when temperatures were lowest.
"If you experience chest tightness, pain, difficulty breathing, or cold sweats, call 119 immediately for help," said Zhou Yonghua, emergency medical services captain at Changhua County Fire Department.
Authorities also recommended keeping a coat by the bed and drinking warm water immediately after waking to maintain body temperature. When going outside, residents should wear hats, scarves, and masks. Motorcycle riders should prepare cold-weather gear, and those exercising or swimming at dawn should stretch thoroughly to prevent muscle stiffness and sudden physical distress.
