Super Typhoon Ragasa has wreaked havoc across the Taiwan region, leaving at least 14 people dead and dozens more injured, local authorities reported Wednesday morning. The local emergency operation center says more than 100 individuals remain missing amid widespread flooding and powerful storm surges.
The typhoon's outer circulation continues to lash eastern, northern and southern coastal areas, bringing torrential rain and gusty winds. On Tuesday afternoon, rising waters caused a barrier lake dam in Hualien County to overflow, inundating surrounding villages and forcing hundreds of residents to seek shelter.
Roadblocks, fallen trees and power outages have hampered rescue efforts, as emergency crews race against the clock to reach isolated communities. A spokesperson from the Taiwan region's disaster management office said response teams are coordinating air and ground operations to cover the hardest-hit areas.
Forecasters warn that heavy rain may persist through the week, raising concerns about further flooding and landslides. Meanwhile, communities are coming together, sharing resources on social media and supporting volunteer relief drives to help those affected by this extreme weather event.
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Typhoon leaves 14 dead, with over 100 missing in Taiwan region
cgtn.com
