In July, landslides after an earlier typhoon blocked Matai’an Creek in Hualien County, creating a “barrier lake” in the mountains. On 23 September, heavy rain from Super Typhoon Ragasa made it overflow. About 60 million tonnes of water rushed down into Guangfu township.
The flood swept away a major road bridge and filled streets with mud. By the next day, 17 people had died and 17 were missing. Most of those who died were elderly residents who could not escape in time.
Warnings that came too late
About 5,200 people, around 60% of Guangfu’s population, sheltered on the upper floors of their homes. Many said there was not enough warning, and a local councillor said evacuation requests had not been compulsory.
In the days that followed, soldiers went door to door handing out bottled water and food, because floods leave taps unsafe.
What preparation changes
- Lives: clear, early warnings give people time to leave.
- Health: stored drinking water keeps families safe when supplies are cut.
- Recovery: faster clean-up of mud and debris from water systems.
How you can help
Share this story and check how your own community warns people about floods. Follow charities that help towns prepare for disasters before they happen.
Source: Al Jazeera, “Super Typhoon Ragasa kills 17 in Taiwan”, 24 September 2025; Malay Mail, 24 September 2025; Kazinform / Xinhua, 24 September 2025; Malay Mail on warnings, 24 September 2025.
