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4h ago

Taiwan Barrier Lake Breach Kills 17 as Ragasa Floods Batter Hualien

Hazardous access in quake-weakened mountains thwarted efforts to lower the water level.

Damaged cars lie piled up in mud, following flooding brought by Super Typhoon Ragasa in Hualien, Taiwan, September 24, 2025. REUTERS/Ann Wang
At least 14 people were killed and 46 injured in the flood unleashed by the lake burst
Flood victims prepare to spend a second night sheltering in a local church after a barrier lake burst due to torrential rain from Super Typhoon Ragasa

Overview

  • Officials confirmed at least 17 deaths, with the number of missing cut to 17 as rescue and cleanup operations continued.
  • An estimated 60 million tonnes of water surged out when the natural dam failed, and the lake’s volume has fallen by about 75%.
  • Flash mudflows destroyed a bridge and swamped Guangfu with thick sludge, wrecking vehicles and damaging homes and shops.
  • Across Taiwan nearly 8,400 people were evacuated, including 3,285 near the lake, with about 1,200 staying in shelters.
  • Premier Cho Jung-tai pledged assistance and called for a review of evacuation compliance, while authorities reported more than 4,000 residents without running water.