New Landslide Lake Forms in Taiwan's Hualien Mountains as Typhoon Approaches

A newly formed landslide lake has been discovered in the remote mountains of Hualien, Taiwan, raising concerns as Typhoon Mikala approaches the island. The lake, located on the upper reaches of the Wanli River, was identified through routine aerial photography by the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency's Hualien branch. The agency has activated its "Landslide Lake Response Team" and requested support from the helicopter squadron for an aerial survey on Tuesday. Preliminary evaluations indicate the lake is approximately 3 hectares in size and is situated a considerable distance from downstream villages. The terrain is difficult to access by land, with the main road blocked by landslides at multiple points. "We received a report from the aerial survey branch of the Forestry Administration this afternoon regarding a suspected new landslide lake in the upper reaches of the Wanli River," stated an official from the Hualien branch. "We have activated the 'Landslide Lake Response Team' and are urgently requesting aerial survey support for tomorrow."

While the situation is being closely monitored, officials have stressed that there is no immediate danger to the public. The lake's location, approximately 22 kilometers from the nearest protected households in Wanrong Township and Fenglin Township, and with significant elevation differences, suggests a low risk of sudden flooding. However, the agency is taking precautions. "Based on preliminary assessments, the lake is a considerable distance from downstream villages and has a significant elevation difference, so there is no immediate danger," an agency statement read. "We urge the public not to panic, but please avoid activities around the riverbed in the near future."

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We received a report from the aerial survey branch of the Forestry Administration this afternoon regarding a suspected new landslide lake in the upper reaches of the Wanli River. We have activated the 'Landslide Lake Response Team' and are urgently requesting aerial survey support for tomorrow.

The agency has notified relevant authorities, including the Ninth River Management Office of the Water Resources Agency, and established a communication group to monitor downstream water levels and coordinate responses. Local township offices and the Hualien County Government have also been informed. The exact dimensions of the dam body and the lake's volume are yet to be determined, pending the results of the aerial survey. The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency pledged to continue monitoring the area closely and provide timely updates to disaster response units and the public.

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Based on preliminary assessments, the lake is a considerable distance from downstream villages and has a significant elevation difference, so there is no immediate danger. We urge the public not to panic, but please avoid activities around the riverbed in the near future.