Red alert issued for Taiwan landslide lake; key bridge to close

Authorities in Taiwan have issued a red alert for the Wanli River landslide lake, prompting mandatory evacuations and a phased closure of a key bridge. The lake's water level has reached 97.8% of its capacity, with overflow anticipated by Tuesday afternoon.

The Highway Bureau's Eastern Region Maintenance Office announced that the Tai 9 Wanli Creek Bridge would be fully closed from 10 PM on Monday to 8 AM on Tuesday. This measure is a precautionary step following the red alert issued at 3 PM, which triggered emergency response protocols.

Initially, one lane of the bridge was closed to allow traffic to pass, but the complete closure aims to ensure public safety as the water level rises. Officials are monitoring the situation closely and will adjust the closure dynamically based on the overflow or significant water level increases.

For motorists affected by the closure, alternative routes have been provided. Southbound traffic is advised to use Tai 11 or Tai 11A highways, or the Tai 30 highway, before rejoining Tai 9. Northbound traffic should follow similar detours via Tai 30 or Tai 11.