On the Scene: Fire on Dadu Mountain in Taichung – Contained as Helicopters Make Drops

Yesterday afternoon (13th), another fierce wildfire broke out on Dadu Mountain in Taichung. The fire spread rapidly, and from the western and southern districts of the city, the entire hillside was blanketed in thick smoke. The ominous plume was even visible across the city in Changhua. The National Airborne Service Corps (NASC) immediately dispatched its heavy-lift Black Hawk helicopters based in Taichung. They made repeated trips, scooping water from Taichung Harbor and dropping it on the flames, racing against the clock to contain the blaze before nightfall.

At the Scene: Wind-Fuelled Flames Keep Firefighters Exhausted

The fire started around 2 p.m. near the well-known Wanggaoliao viewing area on Dadu Mountain. Whipped by the wind, flames tore through the dry silvergrass and acacia forest at an alarming pace. Ground crews rushed to lay hoses, but the mountainous terrain lacked water sources, forcing them to rely on water shuttles. Narrow roads added to the immense difficulty of the fight. It was clear to everyone that air support was the only real option.

The NASC helicopters flew at least a dozen sorties. Each time the roar of their engines echoed over the city, people knew they were off for another water run. Watching them fly low over Taichung Harbor and accurately drop their payloads on the fire was a truly awe-inspiring sight that commands deep respect for these crews.

Local Perspective: This Isn't the First Fire on Dadu Mountain, and It Won't Be the Last

"Looking back at this fire, Dadu Mountain burns almost every year," said Mr. Li, a Nantun resident for over 40 years, shaking his head. "Especially now, during this dry spell without rain. One stray cigarette butt, or even sunlight focused through a piece of glass, can spark a blaze." He recalled major fires in 2005, 2011, and 2019. Each time, massive resources are mobilised. The green returns within months, but the ecological damage takes far longer to heal.

While the area burned this time might not be the largest on record, its proximity to the city meant the thick smoke directly impacted air quality in the Xitun and Nantun districts. Many residents smelled burning well into the afternoon, shutting their windows tightly, and some even started coughing. The environmental protection agency's monitoring vehicle was dispatched, but the main concern on everyone's mind was when the fire would be completely extinguished.

Your Guide to a Hillside Fire: What to Do When One Strikes

Many people might not know how to protect themselves when a large-scale wildfire like this happens. Here are a few key points from this simple guide:

• Shut windows and doors, use an air purifier: The fine particulate matter in the smoke is harmful to your respiratory system. Children, the elderly, and those with asthma should stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities.
• Wear a mask if you must go out: If you absolutely have to go outside, don't skip the mask. A standard surgical mask is effective at filtering out most of the smoke and ash.
• Avoid roads near the fire zone: Roads around Dadu Mountain, like Huanan Road, Youyuan Road, and Zhongtai Road, are likely to be under traffic control. Drivers should find alternative routes and avoid gathering to watch, as this hinders emergency operations.
• Stay off the hills for exercise: Dadu Mountain is a popular spot for cycling and running. In the days following a fire, hotspots can remain underground, and the soil becomes unstable. It's crucial not to go into the area.

Learning from the Dadu Mountain Fire: A Lesson for Us All

Someone jokingly asked, "What can we learn from the Dadu Mountain fire?" Of course, it's not about exploiting a disaster, but about thinking what we can take away from it. Long-time Taichung residents often say this low mountain range is like the city's lungs. When it's scorched, the whole city feels it's struggling to breathe.

In my view, rather than relying solely on our brave firefighters every time, we should focus on prevention. For instance, before the dry season each year, the Forestry Bureau and Fire Department should thoroughly clear firebreaks and perhaps even conduct controlled burns to reduce the build-up of dry brush and leaves, preventing a small fire from turning into an inferno. Furthermore, strictly enforcing bans on littering cigarette butts and illegally burning waste is fundamental to stopping human-caused fires. This fire didn't just burn trees; it was a stark warning about our own disaster preparedness.

As of this morning (the 14th), the main fire is largely contained, but firefighters remain on the scene, monitoring for any flare-ups. Seeing the helicopters finally grounded comes as a huge relief. Here's hoping the hillside recovers quickly and will soon be lush green once more.