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Teh Japanese government is considering a plan to allow the self-defense forces to operate more freely in the event of a major disaster, even if it means perhaps violating the constitution.
The plan, which is still under discussion, would involve amending the Self-Defense Forces Law to allow them to provide assistance to local governments and public utilities even before a formal request for help is made. This would be notably useful in the event of a large-scale earthquake or tsunami, where communication networks might potentially be down and it may be tough to coordinate a response.
However, the plan has raised concerns among some constitutional scholars, who argue that it could violate Article 9 of the Japanese constitution, which renounces war and prohibits the maintenance of a military. They argue that allowing the self-defense forces to operate without a clear legal basis could lead to the militarization of disaster relief efforts.
The government argues that the plan is necessary to ensure a swift and effective response to major disasters. They point to the fact that the self-defense forces have been heavily involved in disaster relief efforts in recent years, and that they have the resources and expertise to provide valuable assistance.
The plan is expected to be debated in the Diet (Japanese parliament) in the coming months. It is unclear whether it will be approved, but it is likely to be a contentious issue.
Central Weather Bureau Issues Cold Warning for taiwan
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Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau (CWB) has issued a cold warning, anticipating temperatures to drop substantially across the island, particularly in northern regions. The warning,issued on January 14,2024,anticipates the coldest temperatures of the season,with some areas potentially experiencing temperatures as low as 4°C (39.2°F).
Impact on Northern Taiwan
The most significant impact of the cold wave is expected in northern Taiwan. The CWB forecasts that temperatures in the northern plains could fall to 4°C to 6°C (39.2°F to 42.8°F) overnight and early morning. Mountainous areas in the north may experience even lower temperatures, with the possibility of frost and even snow at higher elevations.
Precautions and Advisories
The CWB advises residents to take precautions against the cold, including wearing warm clothing, limiting outdoor activities, and ensuring adequate heating in homes. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions,such as heart disease or respiratory problems,are urged to be particularly cautious. The bureau also warns of increased moisture in the air, potentially leading to slippery road conditions.
Download the CWB App
To stay updated on the latest weather details, the CWB encourages residents to download their mobile app, available on both iOS and Android platforms.
The CWB will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.