Super #typhoon Ragasa, one of the strongest #storms of 2025, has caused widespread devastation across East Asia, with Taiwan experiencing significant #structural and #geotechnical impacts. In Hualien County, floodwaters unleashed by the bursting of a barrier lake destroyed a #bridge on Provincial Highway 9 between Fenglin and Guangfu. Authorities confirmed at least 17 fatalities, with dozens missing and over 7,000 residents evacuated.
When #barrierlakes #collapse, the resulting outburst #floods release large volumes of #water in a short time. This generates extreme #hydraulic forces capable of scouring riverbeds, undermining bridge foundations, and sweeping away #infrastructure. In Guangfu Township, floodwaters reportedly rose to second-floor levels in some homes, with sediment-laden flows leaving behind mud and debris across the affected areas.
#taiwan #hongkong #flooding
Video footage from The Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel Hong Kong
