TAIPEI (Taiwan News) —  A dolphin was found stranded on Nantian beach in Taitung on Wednesday (Oct. 2) due to Typhoon Krathon.

Villagers in Nantian Township found the dolphin had washed ashore around noon. It was still alive as of 2 p.m. Wednesday, per CNA.

The dolphin was struggling to get back into the sea. The waves were too strong, which made it dangerous for villagers to approach and assist.

The Coast Guard Administration confirmed it was a dolphin. The Coast Guard was unable to send rescuers due to safety concerns and the closure of the South Link Highway. However, nearby inspection station personnel have been watching the dolphin with binoculars.

Due to Typhoon Krathon, Taitung was expected to receive up to 1,300 mm of rain. As a safety precaution, the Xinxianglan to Dawu section of the South Link Highway was closed at 8 p.m. Tuesday (Oct. 1), per UDN.

This marked the first closure of the highway since it was widened and improved. The section was reopened at 8 a.m. Thursday (Oct. 3), per UDN.