Hualien, Taiwan (April 18, 2026)— A search and rescue operation is currently underway after a 54-year-old man went missing while fishing along the coastal area of Hualien City, amid rough sea conditions influenced by the outer circulation of Typhoon Sinlaku.
Although the typhoon remains at a distance from Taiwan, its effects have already caused strong swells and long waves across the northeastern and eastern coastal waters. Authorities have warned that sea conditions remain dangerous.
According to police reports, the man’s wife alerted authorities in the early hours after he failed to return home from a fishing trip. 📞 She last detected his mobile phone signal near Beibin Park in Hualien City, where his vehicle was later found. However, there was no sign of the man himself.
The missing individual is described as 54 years old, approximately 170 cm tall, and was last seen wearing black pants, yellow rain boots, and carrying a black backpack. 👤
Following the report, a large-scale joint search operation was launched involving the coast guard, police, fire department, and port authorities. Search efforts covered a coastal stretch of about 5 kilometers—from the west breakwater of Hualien Port to the mouth of the Hualien River. 🚤🚒
Despite extensive efforts involving patrol vehicles, rescue teams, and patrol boats, no trace of the missing fisherman has been found as of the latest update.
The Coast Guard Administration has urged the public to exercise extreme caution when engaging in coastal or fishing activities during unstable weather conditions. Officials also advised the public to check real-time sea condition updates through the GoOcean app before heading out to sea. 📱
Authorities further reminded the public that in case of emergencies at sea or along the coast, they should immediately call 118, the coast guard rescue hotline, for prompt assistance. 🚨
Search and rescue operations are continuing as officials hope to locate the missing man safely despite challenging weather and sea conditions.