Heavy Rainfall in Yunlin Causes Widespread Flooding; Vehicles Struggle Through Floodwaters

(Central News Agency reporter Chiang I-Ching, Yunlin County, May 13) Due to vigorous development of convective cloud systems, heavy rainfall struck Yunlin County this evening, causing flooding in parts of Douliu City and Linnei Township. Low-lying areas experienced water accumulation up to knee level, prompting many cars and motorcycles to risk driving through floodwaters. Several motorcycles stalled as a result.

Hsu Hung-Po, Director of Yunlin County's Water Resources Office, told CNA that the sudden downpour, triggered by intense convection, led to localized hourly rainfall exceeding 80 millimeters. The drainage system could not cope, resulting in road flooding in Douliu and Linnei. Once the rain eased, the accumulated water quickly receded.

Hsu stated that the Water Resources Office is already aware of flood-prone areas reported by residents and is actively seeking solutions, including applying to the central government for funding to implement improvements.

According to statistics from the Water Resources Agency, hourly rainfall in Pingding (Linnei) and Gukeng briefly exceeded 100 millimeters, while Douliu recorded 70 to 80 millimeters. The National Science and Technology Center for Disaster Reduction issued a Level 1 flood warning for Linnei, Citong, Xiluo, and Gukeng.

The intense convection caused sudden heavy rainfall in Yunlin during evening rush hour, with torrential downpours leading to flooding on major roads in Douliu City, including Yunlin Road, Minsheng Road, and Xiping Road. In low-lying areas, water depth reached knee level. Numerous motor vehicles risked driving through the water, with multiple motorcycles stalling. Riders pushed their bikes in the rain until the downpour subsided around 7 p.m., when the flooding gradually receded. (Edited by Li Shu-Hua) 1150713