Taiwan: Mataian River Barrier Lake Collapse Floods Guangfu
Flooding in Guangfu Township in Taiwan (Image X.com)
Hualien County reels after Typhoon Ragasa-triggered floods breach Mataian River dam, washing away Mataian Bridge, submerging Guangfu streets, and leaving residents stranded on rooftops as rescue operations intensify.
By TRH Global Affairs Desk
NEW DELHI, September 23, 2025 — A catastrophic flood struck Guangfu Township in Hualien County this afternoon after the Mataian River barrier lake overflowed and its bank collapsed, unleashing torrents of mud and debris into the town.
The Hualien County Fire Bureau confirmed that at least 75 people are trapped and two remain missing after waters surged into downtown Guangfu at around 2:50pm. Streets were submerged up to rooftop level, with vehicles and homes swept away in the deluge.
Images and videos from the scene showed residents climbing onto buildings and cars to escape the rising, silt-laden waters. The force of the flood destroyed the Mataian River Bridge and inundated Guangfu Railway Station, cutting off key transport links.
Rescue efforts are underway with support from fire departments in Taipei, New Taipei City, and Taitung County, as well as civilian volunteers providing boats. Authorities have urged residents to evacuate to higher ground immediately, warning of another potential flood peak.
The flooding was triggered by Typhoon Ragasa, which has brought days of heavy rainfall to eastern Taiwan. Officials declared an emergency in Guangfu Township, evacuating thousands living near the river.
“This is a major disaster unfolding in real time,” wrote disaster monitoring account Volcaholic on X, noting that almost all of Guangfu Township is under water.
The situation remains critical, particularly for the elderly population in the township. Rescue teams are prioritizing ground-level rescues while urging those on upper floors to await assistance.
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