Intense Rainfall Transforms Taoyuan into a Water World: Mid-Night Flooding in Zhongli

Heavy Downpours Cause Severe Flooding, Disrupting Traffic and Raising Concerns

A torrential downpour swept across Taoyuan City on a recent night, prompting widespread flooding and causing significant disruption, especially in the Zhongli district. Residents reported conditions reminiscent of a typhoon, with relentless rain and powerful winds battering the city.

The intensity of the rainfall was particularly severe in Zhongli, exceeding 100 millimeters in some areas. This led to substantial flooding in several streets, including the critical intersection on Huanbei Road. Water levels rose to alarming heights, in some cases reaching nearly knee-deep, submerging more than half of vehicle tires. Motorists were forced to navigate the flooded streets, creating perilous "waterborne driving" conditions.

The Taoyuan City Government's Water Resources Bureau addressed the situation this morning, explaining that the severe flooding in Zhongli, particularly at the Huanbei Road curve, was linked to the irrigation canals beneath the area. The officials stated that the water level rise wasn't connected to current sewer work, noting that the location underwent cleaning two years prior. The bureau officials announced that a thorough examination and a plan to fix the problem will be conducted tomorrow.