In brief
A catastrophic flood in Hualien, Taiwan, triggered by Typhoon Ragasa, has left at least 14 people dead and many more unaccounted for after a barrier lake overflowed unexpectedly. Local residents described the shocking scene as the floodwaters rushed in, with elderly individuals among the hardest hit. Despite prior warnings from researchers, inadequate evacuation measures led to severe consequences as the disaster unfolded rapidly.
When the floodwater came rushing down from the mountain, Awa and her husband tried to get to their car – but it was already too late.
It was like a river outside and cars were floating. Everything started drifting, said 42-year-old Awa, a bookstore owner. The couple sought refuge on the second floor of their shop in Guangfu township, trying to save as many books as possible.
I'm still in shock. I just can't imagine how this could have happened, she said.
Residents across Taiwan are reeling from the unexpected destruction caused by Super Typhoon Ragasa, which impacted the island despite not being in the storm's direct path.
The breaching of the Matai'an Creek barrier lake – formed by landslides in July – triggered unprecedented flooding in Hualien. When the lake overflowed, at least 14 people died, and many more were left injured or missing.
The barrier lake released an enormous volume of water, causing rapid flooding that washed away infrastructure and stranded residents. Many victims were elderly individuals who found themselves trapped in their homes.
Emergency services revealed that warnings sent out prior to the flood weren’t adequately conveyed to the affected populations. Survivors reported receiving no urgent notices as the floodwaters began their swift descent.
As the Typhoon approached, local authorities evacuated around 7,000 people and set up three evacuation centers, but the evacuation was not mandatory. Many living outside immediate danger zones were left unaware that they were in harm's way.
The aftermath sees survivors like Awa dealing with the devastation to their livelihoods while grappling with loss and despair among their community. Emergency responders emphasize the need for improved crisis communication and proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with such natural disasters.
