The water level at the Fata’an River barrier lake has receded by 104 meters to 15% capacity following Super Typhoon Ragasa, as announced this Thursday by Hualien’s Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency. While the agency has determined there is no immediate threat of flooding along the barrier lake created by earlier landslides, the red alert remains in effect, and residents are urged to return to shelters at night.

Hualien Branch Director Huang Chium-tse (黃群策) explained that drone footage was captured around 9 a.m. Thursday morning, which indicated that the lake’s water level had dropped significantly. He added that the red alert would remain in effect until the area is deemed safe, subject to weather conditions and a comprehensive assessment of the remaining dam, water levels, and riverbed conditions.

Taiwan Water Corporation President Lee Tin-lai (李丁來) announced that the water supply had been restored to 610 households, but that over 3,000 households in the affected area of Guangfu Township remain without water due to high water consumption and unstable water pressure. He added that 13 water supply stations have been established in the area, and that residents in need of assistance can contact their village chiefs or call 1910.

The Water Resources Agency stated that damage covering a 300-meter section of the Fata’an River had been discovered as the water levels receded, and that 45 units have been dispatched for repairs. The agency notes that initial reconstruction should be completed within two weeks, and comprehensive restoration work should be completed by April next year.