Typhoon Ragasa Causes Flooding and Casualties in Taiwan; US Uncovers Cell Network Threat Near UN
On September 23, 2025, Taiwan was struck by Super Typhoon Ragasa, resulting in severe flooding in the eastern county of Hualien. Simultaneously, in New York City, the US Secret Service uncovered a sophisticated network capable of crippling cellular communications, just as world leaders were gathering for the UN General Assembly.
Typhoon Ragasa Devastates Hualien, Taiwan
Typhoon Ragasa brought torrential rain to Taiwan, causing a barrier lake in the mountains of Hualien County to burst its banks. The resulting floods washed away a bridge and swept into the town of Guangfu. The fire department reported that two people have died and 30 remain missing. Rescue efforts are underway as of September 23rd.
According to Lee Lung-sheng, deputy chief of Hualien County Fire Department, some areas saw water rise as high as the second floor of buildings. Approximately 263 people were trapped but were moved to higher ground. More than 7,600 people across Taiwan have been evacuated due to the typhoon. The island experienced almost 60 cm (24 inches) of rainfall in the east.
Earlier in July, Typhoon Danas also caused damage, killing two people and injuring hundreds.
US Secret Service Discovers Cellular Network Threat Near UN Headquarters
The US Secret Service discovered a network of illegal equipment capable of shutting down the cellular network in and around New York City, as world leaders convened for the UN General Assembly. The devices were located within a 35-mile radius of the city.
The network was capable of anonymously sending 30 million text messages per minute. Matt McCool, the top agent at the Secret Service’s New York field office, stated that the agency had never seen such an extensive operation. The devices and SIM cards were discovered in August after an investigation into anonymous telephonic threats against high-level U.S. government officials.
Investigators also found 80 grams of cocaine, illegal firearms, computers and cellphones. Experts suggest the equipment could have been used for espionage or eavesdropping.
Ongoing Investigations and Implications
Investigations are ongoing in both Taiwan and the United States. In Taiwan, rescuers are heading to Guangfu to assist those affected by the flooding. In the US, the Secret Service, along with the New York Police Department, the Justice Department, and others, are investigating the cellular network threat, with officials stating that further discoveries of similar devices in other cities are possible.
