Typhoon causes landslide, blocking key highway in Taiwan

Typhoon Saola's outer bands unleashed torrential rain, causing a significant landslide on Taiwan's Highway 14 near Wushe late Tuesday night. The deluge sent rocks and mud tumbling onto the roadway, with several trees also falling and completely blocking both directions of traffic.

The incident occurred around 9 p.m. on the 76.9-kilometer mark of the highway, a critical route through Nantou County. Fortunately, no vehicles or individuals were present on the road at the time of the collapse, averting potential casualties.

Authorities responded swiftly, with police arriving to control traffic and notify the Puli Works Section of the Directorate General of Highways. Emergency crews worked through the night to clear the debris. By 10 p.m., one lane was reopened, allowing for single-lane, two-way traffic while cleanup operations continued.

Despite the road reopening, officials are urging extreme caution. The weather in the mountainous region remains unstable, and the risk of further landslides persists. Drivers are advised to slow down, avoid unnecessary stops, and remain vigilant of changing road conditions and potential slope movements.