Taiwan Rains Kill 3, Leave 1 Missing; Landslide Lake Prompts Central Alert

Taiwan is grappling with the aftermath of severe rainfall that began on June 24, attributed to the outer bands of Typhoon Mikala and a southwest monsoon. The downpours have led to widespread flooding and claimed at least three lives, with one person still missing.

The national flood disaster response center has been deactivated as the rain subsides. However, a new threat has emerged: a landslide lake in Hualien's Wanli River. The Ministry of Agriculture has established a central disaster response center to monitor the risks of landslides and overflow.

Authorities reported three fatalities: a woman in Kaohsiung's Shanlin District, another woman in Hsinchu County's Zhubei City, and a man in Hsinchu County's Xinfeng Township. A man remains missing in Hsinchu County's Xinpu Township, and search efforts are ongoing.

Interior Minister Liu Shih-fang has urged local governments to enhance flood prevention measures, particularly against landslides and severe flooding in low-lying areas. The public is strongly advised to avoid hazardous areas like mountains, rivers, and beaches. Residents in flood-prone zones are encouraged to install water barriers, stock at least three days' worth of supplies, and utilize disaster alert mobile applications.