Landslide Lake Threatens, Then Subsides in Yunlin

A precarious situation unfolded in Yunlin County as a landslide lake formed due to days of torrential rain. Fortunately, the danger has passed, offering relief to downstream communities in **Yunlin**, **Chiayi**, and **Nantou**.

Emergency Response and Natural Relief

The formation of the dammed lake, holding an estimated 22.45 million cubic meters of water, raised concerns about potential downstream flooding. The government swiftly assembled a response team, utilizing drones for aerial surveys and deploying water conservancy experts to assess the unstable dam’s geology.

Authorities also issued early warnings to villages situated downstream, and the **Gukeng Township Office** explored manual drainage options. Ultimately, natural overflow played a critical role in mitigating the crisis, as rainfall diminished, and the Fourth Rivers Branch of the Water Resources Department rescinded the warning.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, landslides are a common occurrence in mountainous regions worldwide, often triggered by intense rainfall or seismic activity (USGS).

A History of Landslide Lakes in Caoling

The water level of the lake receded by 23 meters, with the flow of water carving a 72-meter-wide path through the dam’s midsection, restoring the Qingshui Creek’s capacity to handle floodwaters. This specific area has a history of landslide lake formations dating back to 1864, punctuated by events such as the devastating 921 earthquake.

A landslide lake formed after the 1999 earthquake, known as Xincaolingtan, disappeared after Typhoon Mintuli in 2004. While the recent landslide lake did not result in catastrophe, it serves as a reminder of nature’s raw power.

Continued Vigilance Urged

The Water Resources Administration stressed the need for continuous monitoring of the dam’s condition and water levels. The agency advises the public to avoid rivers during periods of heavy rainfall and typhoons, emphasizing the importance of staying informed through official weather updates and government advisories to ensure personal safety.