TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Tropical Storm Fung-wong (鳳凰颱風) triggered severe flooding Tuesday (Nov. 11) in Hualien County (花蓮縣), devastating Mingli Village (明利村) after the Mataian River (馬太鞍溪) overflowed. The storm's peripheral circulation and northeast monsoon rains cut off multiple roads in Wanrong Township (萬榮鄉). The flooding mirrors previous disasters that struck nearby Guangfu Township (光復鄉).
Mingli Village chief Lin Wan-cheng (林萬成) reported mud accumulated up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) high as rain came in waves, complicating recovery efforts. The village leader described an unusual influx of black water following the heavy rainfall. Residents evacuated in advance, preventing casualties despite homes being inundated with mud and debris.
Hualien County Magistrate Hsu Chen-wei (徐榛蔚), the county's top elected official, urged the central government to dredge the Mataian River and restore transportation links. Authorities coordinated with central government agencies to address the flooding crisis. President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) pledged central government support for earthquake and typhoon recovery during Tuesday's meetings with county officials. ◼
>>> For comprehensive weather updates, consult these official meteorological agencies:
Central Weather Administration (CWA, 中央氣象署), Taiwan's national weather service: CWA Typhoon Information: https://www.cwa.gov.tw/V8/E/P/Typhoon/TY_NEWS.html
Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA, 気象庁), Japan's official weather authority: JMA Tropical Cyclone Information: https://www.data.jma.go.jp/multi/cyclone/cyclone_detail.html?id=61&lang=en
>>> In case of a typhoon, you should prepare for the storm and avoid going outside. Stay away from beaches and coastal areas for wave-watching or water activities. Be alert for strong winds and heavy rain while watching for landslides and falling rocks. Remember that emergency assistance is available at 119/1999, maritime emergencies at 118, and police or disaster reporting at 110/119.
