Two rock collectors are stranded in a river gorge in Hualien's Xiulin township after heavy rain, and rescue attempts have failed so far, though both are reported safe.

• The pair got stuck on the riverbed near the Longjian power plant during Monday's downpour in Hualien.
• Fire crews sent 12 people and four vehicles in at dawn, but landslides and mud blocked the route in.
• A drone pinpointed the two, and rescuers tried to rappel down a gorge wall about 100 metres deep — every attempt failed as the water stayed high and fast.
• Crews strung a rope across the gorge and used a drone to deliver warm clothing, food, and a radio, so the two can now be contacted directly.

Outlook: Rescuers plan to try again once the mountain rain eases, likely tomorrow.