Taiwan has multiple rivers prone to flooding, with the most important being Zhuoshui, Dajia, Wu, Nantou, and Gaoping rivers. These rivers flood easily during typhoon and plum rain seasons, threatening downstream communities.
The Zhuoshui River is Taiwan's longest at approximately 187 kilometers, flowing through Nantou and Yunlin. With many municipalities and industrial zones along its banks, flood risk is high. Typhoon Haitang (2004) triggered severe flooding in the Zhuoshui basin, inundating vast farmland.
The Gaoping River, approximately 185 kilometers long, is Taiwan's second-longest river. Flowing through Kaohsiung and Pingtung, it's the region's primary water source. Typhoon-brought heavy rain frequently raises water levels, threatening lowland communities.
Taiwan's government has constructed multiple flood-prevention dams, including Wushantou, Shimen, and other crucial hydraulic facilities. These dams provide drinking and agricultural water while preventing floods. The Water Resources Agency conducts regular river improvement projects to enhance drainage and reduce flood risk.