Taichung: Fifty tourists visiting the Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area in central Taiwan found themselves stranded following a landslide that obstructed the only road down the mountain.
According to Focus Taiwan, the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency's Taichung Branch reported no injuries among the tourists. They are currently taking refuge at a nearby visitor center equipped with food and beverages while awaiting the clearance of the road.
The landslide, which was likely triggered by several days of rainfall, occurred at approximately 1:40 p.m. near the entrance to the recreation area. In response, the agency has closed the recreation area and indicated it will remain shut until road access is restored and safety is assured.
Taichung was one of the 16 municipalities for which the Central Weather Administration (CWA) issued a heavy rain alert at 4:35 p.m. on Friday. This alert spanned most of Taiwan, excluding only a few areas such as Keelung, Hsinchu City, and Taitung County.
The CWA has cautioned that the affected regions should prepare for regional showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Residents, particularly those in low-lying areas, have been urged to remain vigilant against potential landslides, falling rocks, and the risk of rivers overflowing.