A fierce typhoon, named Ragasa, slammed into eastern Taiwan this week. The powerful storm brought with it endless sheets of rain. This downpour caused a water barrier in Hualien City to overflow. The sudden surge of water created chaos and destruction across the area.
This natural disaster has left a heavy toll. Authorities confirmed at least 17 people have died. Another 17 individuals are still missing, causing great worry among their families. The storm also injured 32 people. Most of the dead and missing were from Hualien City. Injured people were reported in both Hualien and southern cities like Kaohsiung.
Images from the affected areas show a grim scene. Muddy water rushed through many buildings. It swept cars away as if they were toys, a truly terrifying sight. Although water levels are dropping in some places, the rain keeps falling. Officials have issued strict warnings for everyone to stay safe. Firefighters and military personnel are on the ground in Hualien City. They are working hard to rescue people and figure out how much damage the typhoon caused. Local news outlets reported on Wednesday, September 24, that rescue efforts continue at full speed.