A group of 50 tourists was successfully rescued Friday evening after being stranded for hours by a sudden landslide at the Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area in central Taiwan’s Taichung City. The incident occurred at approximately 1:40 p.m. near the entrance to the park after persistent heavy rain loosened soil and debris on the steep slopes surrounding the recreation site.
While no injuries were reported, the situation underscores ongoing safety concerns surrounding Taiwan’s mountainous and forested areas during the rainy season, especially when torrential rainfalls follow days of saturation. The landslide effectively cut off access to the only downhill road leading back to town, forcing tourists to wait inside the visitor center under the guidance of park officials and Taichung’s Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency (FNCA).
Immediate Response and Coordination
Upon receiving emergency reports, the FNCA’s Taichung Branch immediately dispatched a team of emergency workers and road-clearance personnel to begin removing debris and reopening the road. Visitors were provided with food, water, and shelter at the Basianshan Visitor Center as the rain continued outside. According to FNCA officials, their swift action ensured everyone remained safe until rescue crews could fully clear the route.
By 6:45 p.m. Friday, all 50 visitors had safely descended the mountain with escort assistance from local emergency personnel. The incident reflects both the increasing frequency of weather-related landslides and Taiwan’s improved emergency response protocols.
Broader Impact and Weather Warnings
This event took place as the Central Weather Administration (CWA) had already put most of Taiwan’s counties on heavy rain alert due to a slow-moving front saturating the region. Warnings emphasized risks such as landslides, flooding, and road instability, especially in mountainous areas like Basianshan that see high volumes of tourist traffic.
Despite improvements in trail design and hillside reinforcement at some national parks in recent years, unpredictable weather patterns remain a serious challenge. Experts suggest that visitors to mountainous recreational areas should always check local weather updates before departure and be prepared for changing conditions.
What’s Next for Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area?
While the road is now clear and most tourist facilities will gradually reopen, the FNCA announced that the recreation area will remain closed until a full safety inspection is completed. Only after geologists and forest management experts confirm that slopes and access routes are stable will the park welcome visitors again.
This incident also comes on the heels of other weather-triggered landslides across central Taiwan this summer, renewing public debate on whether tourism operators and local authorities need to establish more stringent safety protocols and early-warning systems in national parks.
FAQs
What caused the landslide at Basianshan National Forest Recreation Area?
The landslide was triggered by sustained rainfall over the past few days, which loosened soil and rocks along the park’s mountainous slopes.
Were there any injuries?
No injuries were reported. The 50 tourists were safely sheltered at the visitor center before being rescued.
How long were the tourists stranded?
Tourists were trapped for approximately five hours before the road was cleared.
Is the Basianshan Recreation Area open to the public again?
No, the area is temporarily closed until safety inspections and necessary repairs to the access road are completed.
What can visitors do to stay safe when visiting mountainous parks?
Visitors should check local weather forecasts and park alerts, and avoid hiking or driving into mountainous areas during or immediately after heavy rainfall.
