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Heavy rain, Tornado and mudslides wreak havoc in Taiwan

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Source: CCTV.com | 08-14-2007 14:11

Two tropical depressions have left Taiwan with a southwestern current, resulting in heavy rainfall, mudslides and a tornado. Poor weather is likely to continue while a new tropical storm has taken shape not far from Taiwan. He Yuan has the details.

Heavy rainfall hit central and southern parts of Taiwan on Monday, causing mudslides which buried a 54-year-old woman in her house. The woman buried alive was identified as Chen Ai-chu, who lives with her husband, Hsieh, by a fruit farm in the mountain area of Nantou, Taiwan.

The mudslide submerged most of their two-storey house. Hsieh said he heard a thud against the house and called for help. Chen's body was recovered after a five-hour rescue operation, but there were no vital signs.

Mr. Hsieh, victim's husband, said, "This mountain looks safe. Who knew this would happen?"

Other parts of Taiwan also experienced damage from heavy rainfall over the past week. The accumulated precipitation has reached over 250 mm. Houses, streets and even historical monuments have all been inundated due to the rains.