Hualien River Swells, Hsinchu Gas Explosion: President Thanks Rescue Workers

(Central News Agency, reporter Yeh Su-ping, Taipei, June 9) Yesterday, due to heavy rain, the Mataian River in Hualien County suddenly swelled, trapping a construction site foreman who was helping to evacuate machinery. He was safely rescued early this morning. Early this morning, a gas explosion occurred in Hsinchu City, resulting in casualties. President Lai Ching-te expressed gratitude today to police, firefighters, medical personnel, and rescue workers for stepping up at the most critical moment and protecting the safety of the people on the front lines.

President Lai stated on Facebook today that yesterday, in the Mataian River in Hualien, heavy rain caused the river to swell suddenly, trapping a foreman who was assisting in the evacuation of machinery. Fortunately, after tireless search and rescue efforts by firefighters and rescue personnel, he was safely rescued early this morning and sent to the hospital for treatment.

He said that a gas explosion occurred in Hsinchu City early this morning, causing casualties. He expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and instructed relevant central government ministries and local governments to work together to fully assist affected residents with subsequent resettlement and life reconstruction.

President Lai said that whether it was the river swell in Hualien or the gas explosion in Hsinchu, he thanked the police, firefighters, medical personnel, and rescue workers for stepping up at the most critical moment and protecting the safety of the people on the front lines.

President Lai emphasized that the weather will remain unstable over the next week. He urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid river areas and mountainous regions. He also stressed that all outdoor and construction workers must prioritize their personal safety and evacuate early if heavy rain is expected.

He said that with the changeable weather, everyone should continue to pay attention to the latest weather and disaster prevention information, take preventive measures, and take care of their families and their own safety, putting safety first. (Editor: Hsieh Chia-chen) June 9, 2026