TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Authorities urged hikers to exercise caution after five mountain accidents were reported in Nantou County from Friday to Sunday, prompting the deployment of 35 rescue personnel and three helicopters.
The county fire bureau on Monday highlighted that many rescues occurred at night under hazardous conditions, putting both hikers and rescuers at risk, per CNA. Officials advised hikers to prepare thoroughly, monitor weather and trail conditions, and remain aware of their physical limits.
Nantou, in central Taiwan, is home to the country’s highest peak, Yushan. Using Yushan as a reference, the county features 41 peaks above 3,000 meters, forming a sweeping, layered landscape that attracts hikers, according to the Tourism Administration.
The incidents included a hiker who fell on Wushuangshan’s South Third Section on Friday, suffering arterial bleeding and requiring a helicopter airlift.
Early Saturday, a female hiker on the same trail showed signs of altitude sickness and confusion and was unable to walk. That evening, a male solo climber on Chendongkeng Shan reported being lost and was successfully rescued late at night, per CNA.
On Sunday morning, another male hiker developed altitude sickness and could not continue on his own, prompting a rescue.
Later that evening, two hikers reported that one had suffered hypothermia after being soaked by heavy rain while descending from Batongguan Mountain. Park rangers assisted him with warm clothing and hot water before safely escorting him to a mountain hut.
The fire bureau stressed that proper preparation and vigilance are crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both hikers and rescue personnel.
