Taichung Hiking Trail Becomes 'Staircase Waterfall' After Torrential Rain

Intense afternoon thunderstorms in Taichung City have dramatically altered the landscape of the popular Dakeng No. 9 hiking trail, turning its steps into a cascading "staircase waterfall." The sudden deluge, fueled by the vigorous development of convective clouds, overwhelmed the mountain paths, leading to a rapid accumulation of water that surprised and concerned hikers.

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Half an hour ago, I was swimming in Dakeng.

Social media platforms buzzed with images and descriptions of the phenomenon. One hiker shared their experience on Threads, humorously noting they were "swimming in Dakeng half an hour ago," illustrating the sheer volume and speed of the water flow. The trail's natural slope and ravine topography, characteristic of the Dakeng scenic area, proved susceptible to the intense rainfall, causing swift runoff and highlighting the power of the short-duration downpour.

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Really dangerous.

The Central Weather Administration (CWA) had forecast the possibility of localized heavy rain or torrential downpours in mountainous areas of Taichung, Nantou, Miaoli, and Yilan, with potential for heavy rain elsewhere. The CWA issued a stern warning for mountainous regions, urging vigilance against landslides, falling rocks, and sudden rises in river levels caused by the intense rainfall. Low-lying areas were also cautioned about potential flooding risks. Given the volatile weather, authorities are strongly advising against venturing into mountain areas, emphasizing the importance of ensuring safety.

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It's become Pier No. 9 now.