Typhoon Barway Prompts Closure of Central Cross-Island Highway Section

In response to the impending Typhoon Barway, Taiwan's Directorate General of Highways (DGH) announced the closure of the Guanyuan to Taroko section of the Central Cross-Island Highway (Provincial Highway No. 8). The closure is effective from 6 p.m. on July 10, 2026, and is scheduled to last until noon on July 11.

The DGH's Eastern Region Civil Engineering Office cited the latest forecast from the Central Weather Administration, which predicts heavy to torrential rain in the Hualien area from this afternoon through tomorrow noon. Given the ongoing instability of the highway's slopes following the April 3 earthquake, there is a significant risk of landslides and falling rocks. This precautionary measure aims to prevent tourists from being stranded in the mountains and to ensure the safety of road users.

Officials stated that the reopening time might be extended beyond July 11, depending on the typhoon's intensity and the results of road inspections. They urged the public to avoid traveling in mountainous areas unless absolutely necessary, especially during periods of earthquakes, typhoons, or heavy rainfall, as road conditions can be unpredictable.

Road users are advised to stay updated on weather information and road closure notices. The DGH recommends utilizing their real-time provincial highway information service website (https://168.thb.gov.tw) or downloading the "Xingfu Highway App" to check the latest road conditions and plan their travel accordingly.