November 12, 2025 — Yilan, Taiwan
YILAN — Typhoon Fung-wong unleashed heavy downpours across northeastern Taiwan, bringing catastrophic flooding to Su’ao Township in Yilan County. Hourly rainfall exceeded 120 millimeters, overwhelming drainage systems and turning entire neighborhoods into rivers overnight.
All major routes in and out of Su’ao were temporarily cut off, isolating the area “like an island,” according to local authorities. Floodwaters rose to the height of a one-story building, forcing rescuers to use rubber boats to reach trapped residents.
After an intense all-night rescue mission, 89 people were saved and 139 were safely evacuated. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or missing persons, officials confirmed this morning.
Rescue Efforts Underway Amid Deep Floodwaters
The combination of Typhoon Fung-wong and the northeast monsoon produced record-breaking rainfall across Yilan County, affecting not only Su’ao but also Luodong, Wujie, and Dongshan Townships.
Acting County Magistrate Lin Mao-sheng personally oversaw emergency operations at the Yilan County Disaster Response Center. He immediately mobilized firefighters, special rescue units, and military personnel to carry out evacuation efforts.
However, with much of Su’ao under waist-deep floodwater, rescue vehicles struggled to enter affected zones. Teams were forced to advance by foot and by boat, setting up a forward command post at the Su’ao Fire Station. From there, rescuers coordinated with police, firefighters, and township officials to transport stranded residents to shelters.
Massive Deployment of Rescue Resources
According to the Yilan County Fire Department, the overnight rescue operation involved:
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152 fire trucks
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80 rubber boats
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325 emergency responders
As of 5:00 a.m., all trapped residents were accounted for. Authorities have since shifted efforts toward cleanup and disaster recovery, with engineers assessing the structural safety of flooded homes and clearing debris from major roads.
No Casualties, But Recovery Ahead
While the situation has stabilized, officials warn that secondary flooding and landslides remain possible as the storm continues to bring rain to mountainous areas.
Acting Magistrate Lin expressed gratitude to first responders and urged residents to remain cautious. “The safety of our people is our top priority. We will continue rescue and relief efforts until every family can return home safely,” he said.