Taipei, 24 September 2025 (dpa/MIA) - Taiwan on Wednesday reported at least 14 deaths from Typhoon Ragasa, which brought continued heavy rains that caused a barrier lake to overflow into nearby townships.

According to the Central Emergency Operation Center (CEOC), the lake, formed in the mountains of Hualien County after a typhoon in July, overflowed on Tuesday, inundating surrounding areas. Authorities said 124 residents in affected zones remain missing.

More than 8,000 villagers had already been evacuated earlier in the week as the typhoon approached on Monday.

Television footage showed the surge destroying at least one bridge, with residents climbing onto vehicles and buildings to await rescue as dark, muddy water swept through Guangfu Township. Roads were destroyed by the flood and railway lines were submerged.

Across Taiwan, at least 34 people were injured in typhoon-related incidents, authorities said.

Premier Cho Jung-tai was scheduled to visit disaster-hit areas in Hualien on Wednesday to assess bridge damage and oversee relief efforts.

Typhoon Ragasa passed near Taiwan and the Philippines between Tuesday and Wednesday. It is expected to make landfall in southern China later on Wednesday with the second-highest typhoon category.

Meteorologists expect it to weaken as it moves along its projected path to the west.