Barrier Lake on Taiwan's Highway 9 Faces Overflow Risk, Bridge Closed Nightly

Authorities have issued a red alert for a barrier lake formed by a landslide on Taiwan's Highway 9, as water levels surge past the warning threshold. The Wanli Stream bridge on the highway is now subject to precautionary closures each night due to the escalating situation.

The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency's Hualien branch is closely monitoring the barrier lake. While one lane in each direction on the Wanli Stream bridge was open during the day, the highway bureau decided to implement a full closure from 10 p.m. on July 17, mirroring measures taken the previous night. This decision was made considering reduced visibility during nighttime hours.

Personnel are stationed at both ends of the bridge to monitor water levels. If the lake does not overflow and riverbed levels do not rise by the morning of July 18, one inner lane in each direction will reopen for general traffic at 6 a.m. However, a complete closure will be reimposed immediately if the barrier lake overflows or its water level reaches 138.4 meters.

The measure aims to ensure the safety of road users as the situation remains precarious. The potential for overflow poses a significant risk, necessitating strict traffic management protocols.