Chinese mainland mourns loss of lives due to typhoon in Taiwan

A Chinese mainland spokesman mourned the loss of Taiwan compatriots who died in the aftermath of Typhoon Ragasa and extended condolences to their families on Wednesday.

According to CCTV News, the burst of a recently formed barrier lake in Hualien county, triggered by the typhoon on Tuesday afternoon, had left 14 people dead, 34 injured, and 124 missing as of 11 am on Wednesday.

Chen Binhua, spokesman for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, expressed sympathy to the bereaved families and the injured during a regular press conference.

"We hope those affected by the disaster can soon resume normal production and daily life," Chen said.

The overflow of the landslide-dammed lake sent a torrent of water, soil and rocks rushing downstream, directly destroying the bridge there and flooding several townships in Hualien. Officials warned that the number of casualties may continue to rise, according to CCTV News.