A tropical depression has prompted heavy rain and flooding across Taiwan, prompting authorities to take action. On Thursday, rainfall continued in multiple regions due to the storm, which made landfall in southern Pingtung County on Wednesday evening.
Tropical Depression Impacts Taiwan
The storm, identified as Fung-wong, resulted in injuries to at least 95 individuals throughout the island. In response, local authorities evacuated over 8,500 residents from vulnerable coastal and mountainous areas.
Storm Details
- Landfall: Southern Pingtung County, Wednesday evening
- Winds: Sustained winds of 54 kph (34 mph) near the center
- Rainfall: Over 1.065 meters (42 inches) in northern coastal areas around Yilan since Monday
Heavy rainfall, with ongoing risks of flooding and landslides, is expected to persist, particularly around the northeastern port city of Keelung and in the capital, Taipei. Weather officials have issued warnings regarding the potential for debris and loose objects falling from buildings, urging the public to stay vigilant.
Impact on Communities
Mingli Village in eastern Hualien County experienced significant flooding after a nearby creek overflowed, causing extensive damage. Additionally, a portion of a major highway was closed due to rising water levels.
Despite the storm’s impact, schools and offices across the island began reopening after a two-day shutdown in some areas. Fung-wong had previously made landfall in the Philippines as a super typhoon, where it resulted in floods, landslides, and at least 27 fatalities before weakening as it approached Taiwan.
