At least 14 people have died and more than 120 are missing in eastern Taiwan’s Hualien County after a decades-old barrier lake overflowed, sending a torrent of water into Guangfu township amid Super Typhoon Ragasa.
The disaster occurred on Tuesday afternoon when the barrier lake, formed by landslides after days of heavy rainfall, burst its banks, inundating Guangfu township. The surge washed away a bridge and tore through the town, leaving widespread destruction.
As per media reports, as of 7 am Wednesday, 14 people were confirmed dead and 18 were injured. Rescue teams are still searching for the missing. While about 30 people were initially reported unaccounted for, Taiwan’s National Fire Agency later revised the figure to 124.
Floodwater
As per media reports, in some neighborhoods, floodwaters rose as high as a two-story building, compelling 263 residents to shelter in place. Authorities said these residents were not in immediate danger and advised them to remain indoors until the waters receded.
7,600 People Evacuated So Far
Authorities have evacuated over 7,600 people across the island in response to the storm. Approximately 3,100 residents living near Hualien Creek had been moved to safer locations ahead of the typhoon, many staying with relatives. Officials said these early precautions likely helped limit the death toll.
Rescue efforts are ongoing, with authorities cautioning that the number of casualties may rise as access to affected areas improves.
Heavy Rain In Taiwan
Since Monday, Taiwan has been hit hard by the outer bands of Super Typhoon Ragasa, which is now advancing toward southern China and Hong Kong. Hualien has recorded nearly 70 cm (28 inches) of rainfall.
Super Typhoon Ragasa
Super Typhoon Ragasa struck northern Philippines and Taiwan on Monday, bringing fierce winds and relentless rain that forced thousands to evacuate. In Hualien County, the torrential rainfall proved catastrophic, causing the barrier lake to give way on Tuesday.
Preperation For Typhoon Ragasa Landfall
Ahead of Super Typhoon Ragasa, residents in flood-prone regions reinforced their homes with sandbags and barriers at entrances, while some secured windows and glass panels to endure strong winds.
Super Typhoon Ragasa Landfall
China’s National Meteorological Center has issued a warning that the typhoon is likely to make landfall between Taishan and Zhanjiang in Guangdong province between midday and evening on Wednesday.
