Urgent Alert: New Landslide Creates Growing Lake in Taiwan's Taroko Gorge, Threatening Highway and Downstream Areas

Rapidly rising waters in the Liwu River prompt emergency response and evacuation discussions as a natural dam forms.

A significant landslide in Taiwan's Taroko National Park has resulted in the formation of a new landslide lake along the Liwu River. The incident, which occurred near the Swallow Grotto (Yanzikou) trail, has caused a substantial blockage of the river channel. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as the water level is rising rapidly, posing a potential threat to the Central Cross-Island Highway (Provincial Highway 8) and communities downstream.

The Taroko National Park Headquarters received a report from a construction contractor working on a tunnel near Swallow Grotto, indicating a large-scale collapse that sent a significant amount of debris into the Liwu River, creating a natural dam. The affected trail has been closed, and fortunately, there have been no reported injuries.

Emergency response mechanisms have been activated. Initial assessments estimate the landslide lake to be approximately 800 meters long and 30 to 80 meters wide. Observations indicate that the water level is nearing the elevation of the highway. Due to the narrowness of the blocked river channel, the rate at which water is accumulating is faster than the speed at which debris can be removed, creating an urgent situation.

Officials reported that the water level has been rising at an alarming rate of approximately 70 centimeters per hour. With the water level nearing the trail and projected to reach the road surface within hours, local authorities are currently in discussions regarding potential evacuations for residents and businesses in the vicinity. Upstream residents and lodging operators have been advised to prepare for possible evacuation.

An emergency notification has been issued to relevant agencies, including the Directorate General of Highways, Taroko National Park Headquarters, and Xiulin Township Office, to coordinate response efforts. The Directorate General of Highways has implemented traffic control measures on Provincial Highway 8, restricting entry into the affected section from 1 PM onwards. The section of the highway east of the west entrance of the Jinheng Tunnel (near the Swallow Grotto trail) is considered at risk, and authorities recommend clearing the area as a precautionary measure.

The landslide lake is also located in proximity to facilities of Taiwan Power Company's Eastern Power Generation Branch. Taiwan Power has been notified to implement preventative measures at downstream power generation facilities to mitigate any potential impact.

On-site assessments are underway, and heavy machinery is on standby. Experts are evaluating the feasibility of excavation or diversion efforts, but the substantial volume of debris, challenging terrain, and rapid water level rise present significant risks and time constraints. Relevant authorities are carefully assessing the best course of action and timing.

Taroko National Park Headquarters has heightened vigilance at all its stations and is urging businesses, residents, and tourists in the Tianxiang area to remain cautious. Xiulin Township Office is also informing downstream communities about the river conditions.

Authorities are working collaboratively to continuously monitor the water level and the stability of the landslide dam. Further actions will be taken if the water level continues to rise or if there are concerns about the dam's integrity, with the primary goal of ensuring public safety and protecting infrastructure.

The public is strongly advised to avoid the closed section of the road between Swallow Grotto and Jinheng Tunnel and to stay clear of the riverbanks due to the high-risk conditions. Official updates will be provided as the situation develops.