No reports of Singaporeans injured in Typhoon Ragasa in Taiwan: MFA

SINGAPORE – No Singaporeans were reported injured in Typhoon Ragasa in Taiwan, Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said on Sept 26.

The ministry added that it has contacted Singaporeans who registered their trips with MFA online and is in close contact with local authorities.

“Singaporeans who are in or travelling to Taiwan are strongly encouraged to purchase comprehensive travel insurance,” the ministry said. It also advised Singaporeans to register their trips with MFA at

https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg

Singaporeans in Taiwan who need consular assistance may contact the Singapore Trade Office in Taipei or the 24-hour MFA Duty Office.

The Singapore Trade Office in Taipei can be reached on +886-2-2772-1940, on its emergency line on +886-953-532-638, or via

singtr_tpe@mfa.sg

The 24-hour MFA Duty Office can be reached on +65-6379-8800/8855 or

mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

“Singapore is saddened by the tragic loss of lives caused by the flooding in Guangfu town, Hualien county in Taiwan,” the ministry said in its statement, extending its condolences and sympathy to those affected.

Super Typhoon Ragasa pounded Taiwan on Sept 23 with torrential rain, flooding a nearby town and trapping more than 260 people, Taiwanese officials said. The death toll stands at 14, with 11 still missing as at Sept 26.

The heavy rain in Hualien county caused a so-called barrier lake in the mountains to overflow on Sept 23, releasing a thick sludge of water and mud onto the town of Guangfu.

While the flood waters have receded, the dark grey mud continues to blanket large parts of the area, creating problems for residents and rescuers alike.

Rescue workers, sometimes wading in mud up to their waists, have been cutting holes in the roofs of buildings to search for missing people.

More than 7,600 people were evacuated due to the typhoon in Taiwan.

The typhoon also hit Hong Kong and the Philippines.