TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Torrential rain and fierce winds struck Changhua County on Tuesday (July 8), causing severe flooding in the Lukang (鹿港) area. The Central Weather Administration (CWA, 氣象署) issued a thunderstorm alert for the county, as the downpour overwhelmed drainage systems around Lukang Old Street, turning roads into virtual waterways.
The plaza in front of Lugan Mazu Temple (鹿港天后宮) turned into a small pool, forcing residents, students, and shopkeepers to wade through the water or urgently salvage belongings. During an interview, a reporter witnessed a lightning strike nearby, resulting in an electrical box explosion, creating a terrifying display of light and fire.
In just over an hour, the heavy rain overwhelmed the drainage system around Lukang Old Street, causing vehicles to splash water as they passed. Motorcyclists faced challenges, with some daring to ride through flooded roads, while others, fearing water in their exhaust pipes, opted to push their bikes through.
The water level in front of Lugan Mazu Temple nearly surpassed the altar, prompting temple staff to hastily set up pumps to remove water, though they struggled to keep pace with the rainfall. Shopkeepers along Old Street, worried about damage to their utensils, scrambled to save items, lamenting as they watched trash float away with the rising water.