Last Updated on 2025 年 8 月 13 日 by 総合編集組
Typhoon Yangliu (Podul) Road Closures in Taiwan: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction
Typhoon Yangliu (internationally named Podul), the 11th typhoon of 2025, struck Taiwan on August 13, 2025, causing widespread disruption to the island’s road network. With a central pressure of approximately 985 hPa and sustained winds of 60 knots, this mid-level typhoon brought torrential rains and gusts exceeding level 10, particularly impacting eastern and southern Taiwan.
The storm led to 19 preemptive road closures across seven counties and cities, alongside significant damage such as landslides, rockfalls, and urban flooding. This summary outlines the key impacts, response measures, and practical advice for navigating the aftermath.
Mountain Road Closures and Damage
The typhoon’s heavy rainfall and strong winds severely affected Taiwan’s mountainous highways, with 19 provincial roads closed preemptively to ensure safety. Key routes impacted include:
- Tai 8 (Central Cross-Island Highway): The section from Lishan to Dayuling (85K–110K) in Taichung was closed from 2:00 PM on August 13 due to high rockfall risks. A notable landslide at Tai 8’s 94K+500 (Rongxing section) in Nantou caused a complete roadblock, halting traffic to and from Lishan.
- Tai 9 (Hualien-Taitung Coastal Highway): The Jinlun Bridge section (397K+250–398K+600) in Taitung was closed from 10:00 PM on August 12 due to winds exceeding level 10.
- Tai 20 (Southern Cross-Island Highway): Multiple segments in Kaohsiung and Taitung, including Jiaxian to Laonong (58K+300–72K+500) and Xiangyang to Chulai (149K+110–199K+000), were closed due to landslides and unstable roadbeds.
Other affected routes include Tai 3 in Chiayi, Tai 18 in Alishan, Tai 24 in Pingtung, and Tai 29 in Kaohsiung’s Namaxia District. The closures, spanning seven counties (Kaohsiung, Taitung, Pingtung, Tainan, Chiayi, Taichung, and Hualien), reflect the typhoon’s widespread impact. The Rongxing section landslide remains the only reported roadblock, with repair work pending improved weather conditions.
Urban Road Disruptions
Urban areas also faced significant challenges due to Typhoon Yangliu’s road closures. Notable incidents include:
- New Taipei City (Sanchong District): A fallen tree at the intersection of Chongyang Road and Zhongzheng North Road struck two cars and a motorbike, causing minor injuries and temporary traffic disruption.
- Taitung (Chishang Township): The Jing’an Underpass suffered severe flooding, prompting police to set up warning cones and reroute traffic.
- Pingtung (Hengchun): Heavy rain triggered mudflows, turning roads into “mud rivers” and severely impacting local commuting and logistics.
- Hualien (Central Cross-Island Highway): The Guanyuan to Taroko section faced potential closures due to unstable slopes exacerbated by prior earthquakes and typhoon-induced rains.
Response and Recovery Efforts
Taiwan’s authorities acted swiftly to mitigate the impacts of Typhoon Yangliu’s road closures. The Directorate General of Highways established emergency response teams, deploying machinery and personnel for nighttime patrols and repairs. Real-time updates were provided via CMS boards, radio, and the “Happy Highway APP.” Local governments also played a critical role:
- Kaohsiung: Fire departments cleared fallen trees, while the power company restored electricity in affected areas.
- Taitung: The health bureau ensured emergency patients were transferred to unaffected hospitals.
- Chiayi and Tainan: Local police and public works departments coordinated roadblock setups and temporary repairs.
Repairs on critical routes like Tai 8’s Rongxing section are on hold due to ongoing rain, but authorities are poised to act once conditions stabilize.
Broader Transportation Impacts
Beyond roads, Typhoon Yangliu disrupted other transport systems:
- Railways: Taiwan Railway suspended South Link and Hualien-Taitung lines until noon on August 13, with partial cancellations on western routes.
- High-Speed Rail: Operations were normal until noon, with updates announced by 9:00 AM.
- Aviation: Domestic flights by Mandarin and UNI Air were canceled, with some international flights delayed.
- Maritime: Routes to Liuqiu, Green Island, and Lanyu were suspended, alongside Penghu and Taiwan-Matsu ferries.
- Kaohsiung and Tainan: Public transport like YouBike paused, and temporary parking was opened to ease urban congestion.
Practical Advice for Residents and Travelers
To navigate Typhoon Yangliu’s road closures, residents and travelers are urged to:
- Avoid Mountain Roads: Steer clear of high-risk routes like Tai 8, Tai 20, and Tai 29 due to landslide and rockfall risks.
- Plan Ahead: Check the “Happy Highway APP” or the Directorate’s website (https://168.thb.gov.tw) for real-time road updates. Monitor weather forecasts and plan alternative routes.
- Prepare Safety Gear: Carry emergency items like a life hammer, flashlight, reflective vest, and first-aid kit.
- Follow Traffic Controls: Adhere to road signs and police guidance to avoid closed sections.
- Home Preparedness: Stock up on three days’ worth of non-perishable food, water, and emergency supplies. Secure outdoor items to prevent wind-related hazards.
Conclusion
Typhoon Yangliu’s road closures highlight the vulnerability of Taiwan’s infrastructure to extreme weather. The swift response from authorities demonstrates resilience, but the event underscores the need for enhanced preparedness amid climate change. As repairs continue, staying informed via official channels and prioritizing safety will help mitigate risks. This typhoon serves as a reminder to bolster personal and communal defenses against future storms.
