Southern and central Taiwan have witnessed unprecedented torrential rainfall, leading to serious flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage. The hardest-hit areas include Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Taichung, where thousands of residents are facing displacement and mobility restrictions.
What Is Happening in Taiwan?
Between 28 July and 03 August 2025, Taiwan received over 2.6 metres of rainfall, surpassing its annual average of 2.1 metres. This extreme weather event has triggered:
- Flooding in both urban and rural regions
- Landslides in several mountainous areas
- Road collapses, particularly in southern counties
- Evacuation of over 5,900 people
The situation worsened following Typhoon Danas, which passed over the island on 07 July, leaving behind weakened terrain and saturated soil. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued ongoing heavy rainfall warnings for Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Taichung, advising residents to remain indoors and vigilant.
Why Is This Happening?
The convergence of seasonal monsoon patterns and lingering effects from Typhoon Danas has caused persistent rain over southern and central Taiwan. Southwesterly winds have trapped rain bands over mountainous regions, resulting in continuous downpours.
The excessive rainfall has led to:
- Landslides in Beitun, Wufeng, Fengyuan, and Dongshi
- The collapse of Kaohsiung Highway No. 146, cutting off vital connections
- Washed-out roads in Tianliao District, leaving communities isolated
- Multiple casualties and missing persons
Local governments have suspended schools and offices in areas prone to landslides or with ongoing traffic disruptions, including Nantou, Chiayi, Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Pingtung.
Consequences Across Sectors and Communities
Transportation & Travel:
- Road closures in flood-prone and hilly zones
- Suspension of ferry services in seven southern cities
- Disruptions in flight operations due to low visibility and waterlogging
Utilities & Infrastructure:
- High risk of power outages and communication failures
- Obstructed repair work in landslide-affected regions
- Delays in aid delivery to rural and mountainous communities
Public Safety:
- Emergency alerts issued for flash floods and landslides
- Communities urged to follow evacuation instructions
- Increased monitoring of high-risk slopes and riverbanks
Medium-Term Outlook: Preparing for Extended Impact
Rainfall is expected to reduce from 06 August as wind patterns shift, but the Taiwan flood disaster is likely to leave prolonged impacts. Infrastructure recovery and relief operations may continue to face challenges due to unstable terrain and potential for recurring rainfall.
Organizations should:
- Monitor CWA updates
- Reassess travel and logistics plans
- Prepare contingency measures for workforce safety and supply chain continuity
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