Hualien County suspends work, classes due to landslide alert

Mandatory evacuations and suspension of work and classes are ordered for residents in Wanrong Village and Mingli Village in Wanrong Township, and for Fenglin Town on July 12. This measure is a response to the ongoing red alert issued by the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency for the Wanjung Creek landslide, which has reached nearly 80% capacity. Residents in the designated red alert zones are required to evacuate.

Despite the weakening influence of Typhoon Bavi on eastern Taiwan, the red alert for the Wanjung Creek landslide remains in effect, underscoring the persistent danger. The county government emphasized that based on the Central Weather Administration's forecast, Hualien County's rainfall and wind levels do not meet the criteria for suspending work and classes. Therefore, normal operations are scheduled for most of the county.

In contrast, Guangfu Township is under a yellow alert for the Matan Creek landslide. While precautionary evacuations are being conducted in this area, work and classes will continue as usual. The county government, along with the disaster prevention centers for Guangfu, Wanrong, and Fenglin townships, will maintain a Level 1 alert status to respond promptly to any landslide-related emergencies.

The decision to suspend work and classes in specific areas highlights the localized but significant risks posed by potential landslides, even as the broader typhoon threat diminishes. The authorities are prioritizing the safety of residents in areas directly affected by the landslide alerts.