China: Severe flooding has hit China’s Hebei and Liaoning provinces, submerging roads, sweeping away vehicles, and stranding thousands of residents after Typhoon Bavi brought torrential rain and powerful winds to northern and northeastern parts of the country.
Which areas have been worst affected?
The worst flooding has been reported in Kuancheng County in Hebei Province, where water levels exceeded two metres on several roads. In Liaoning Province, authorities issued a red alert for flash floods as rising waters inundated urban areas, including the provincial capital Shenyang.
How many people have been affected?
Chinese state media reported that around 1,800 villagers in Kuancheng have been stranded, with emergency authorities prioritising evacuation and resettlement operations. Authorities also confirmed that 46 rivers across China are flowing above warning levels.
What emergency measures have authorities taken?
Authorities ordered work stoppages, business closures, and the suspension of public gatherings in areas under red rain alerts. Train services in Shenyang have been suspended across more than 30 railway sections, while schools have been closed in several affected regions, including Jilin Province.
What are the latest weather warnings?
China’s Central Meteorological Observatory has warned of continued torrential rainfall, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and winds exceeding Force 11 (up to 117 km/h) across several provinces, including Jilin, Liaoning, Hebei, Shandong, Jiangsu, and Anhui. Authorities have also warned that localized tornadoes remain possible.