TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Rescue efforts entered their third day, marking the end of the 72-hour golden rescue period, for three townships affected by the Mataian barrier lake overflow in Hualien County.

Many homes in Guangfu, Wanrong, and Fenglin Townships remain inaccessible, while some are still submerged. The intersection of the Guangfu River and Mataian River has seen search and rescue operations intensify, per UDN.

According to the latest data from the Central Emergency Operation Center, there are 14 dead, 46 missing, and 32 injured.

Rescuers still have an estimated 50 locations to search. One area of focus is Fozu Street in Guangfu Township, where water levels remain approximately one story high. Search efforts have been hampered by a breached dike nearby.

The water level in the barrier lake has reduced by 75%, but it still holds 23 million tonnes of water. A red alert remains in place for the barrier lake, while drones are monitoring it around the clock.  

Hualien County Magistrate Hsu Chen-wei (徐榛蔚) said search and rescue efforts are taking place in multiple areas. However, heavy intermittent rain has led to continued flooding, per CNA.

Hsu said the municipal government provided equipment to assist residents in clearing mud and debris from their homes as well as adjacent streets. She pledged that roads would be opened as quickly as possible, allowing victims to evacuate if needed.

Affected residents are being housed at Dajin Elementary School (大進國小) and Fataan Presbyterian Church. NGOs such as Tzu Chi and the Red Cross have also deployed volunteers to assist with disaster relief efforts and provide supplies.