Taiwan construction chief survives 16-hour river ordeal, drifts 9km

A construction site supervisor in Hualien, Taiwan, has miraculously survived a harrowing ordeal after being trapped in floodwaters for more than 16 hours and drifting an astonishing 9 kilometers down the Matan Creek. The 50-year-old man, identified by his surname Deng, was working on a flood control project when heavy rainfall caused the river to surge on Sunday afternoon, leading to his entrapment and subsequent disappearance.

Rescue efforts culminated early Monday morning when Deng was found clinging to a large floating object, believed to be a piece of wood, which had helped him survive the treacherous journey. Rescuers believe Deng managed to escape his vehicle and stay afloat in the raging currents. He was discovered significantly downstream from where his jeep was last seen.

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The patient arrived at the hospital with some abrasions and contusions, and was covered in dirty water and mud, with low body temperature.

Upon arrival at Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Deng was treated for multiple abrasions and contusions. Doctors also noted he was suffering from hypothermia due to prolonged exposure to the dirty floodwaters. A detailed examination revealed a minor brain hemorrhage, likely from an impact during his ordeal. He is currently hospitalized for observation, with his condition reported as stable.

Experts and emergency services have reiterated basic water safety principles for such situations. These include staying calm, conserving energy by using floating objects to stay buoyant, slowing breathing, and adopting survival positions like the "jellyfish float" or "back float" to prolong survival time while awaiting rescue. The incident highlights the dangers of flash floods and the importance of preparedness in disaster-prone areas.

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When encountering a swollen river and trapped on rocks or sandbars, one must remain calm and wait for rescue.