Taroko National Park Tunnel Flooded Due to Landslide-Induced Lake in Taiwan

Water levels rise in Jinheng Tunnel as a newly formed landslide dam creates a lake, prompting road closures and safety warnings.

A significant landslide in Taiwan's Taroko National Park has led to the formation of a landslide dam and a subsequent lake, causing flooding in the Jinheng Tunnel along Provincial Highway 8 (台8線). The incident occurred after a large-scale collapse at the Yanzikou (燕子口) trail on the previous day.

The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency reported that the landslide dam is approximately 50 meters high. Due to the low-lying terrain, water from the lake has begun to overflow onto the trail. Surveillance footage from early this morning, around 2 AM, revealed noticeable water accumulation and seepage at the eastern entrance of the Jinheng Tunnel, located at kilometer 175.950 of Provincial Highway 8. The images clearly show water rising on the road surface within the tunnel, indicating the presence of water flow.

In response to the situation, the Directorate General of Highways has implemented precautionary closures and monitoring measures for certain sections of Provincial Highway 8 that are affected by the landslide. The Hualien Branch of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency is continuously monitoring the landslide lake at Yanzikou. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the Yanzikou to Jinheng Tunnel section and surrounding areas, as these are currently considered high-risk zones. All relevant agencies are closely observing the developments and will provide updated safety information as it becomes available.