TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Flooding from the Mataian River devastated multiple schools in Hualien County's Guangfu Township (光復鄉) on Monday (Sept. 23), forcing eight days of closures. Guangfu Junior High School's (光復國中) ground floor suffered near-total destruction from the catastrophic overflow.
The devastating floods struck seven educational institutions, affecting two junior high schools and five elementary schools. Tafalong Elementary School (太巴塱國小) saw its playground completely submerged, while Dajin Elementary School (大進國小) transformed into an emergency shelter for displaced residents.
The Hualien County Education Department (花蓮縣教育局) launched a remote learning initiative to prevent academic disruption, providing electronic devices, tablets, and internet cards. Director Weng Shumin (翁書敏) announced that students unable to attend school can access video classes at home. Volunteers cleared meter-high mud from Guangfu Junior High School on the eighth day, finally revealing the floors.
Officials will assess school recovery progress, family circumstances, and transportation infrastructure before determining class resumption dates. The community's resilient response demonstrates the critical importance of disaster preparedness and mutual support during natural catastrophes. Residents and local authorities maintain vigilance while continuing extensive recovery operations. ◼
