BEIJING: Rescue teams continued searching for survivors across flood-hit regions of China on Wednesday after severe storms, widespread flooding and a landslide killed at least 38 people, while authorities warned that heavy rainfall would persist in several provinces.
The latest official figures showed that 17 people died in flood-related incidents, while a separate landslide in northwestern Gansu province claimed 21 lives. Authorities have mobilised emergency response teams as rivers overflowed, a reservoir dam burst, and thousands of residents were displaced.
What Is the Situation in Guangxi?
Southern Guangxi was among the worst-affected regions, where six people were killed and at least 130,000 residents were evacuated after torrential rainfall triggered severe flooding linked to Typhoon Maysak.
According to regional authorities, floodwaters caused 40 rivers and waterways to overflow, inundating communities and damaging nearly 13,000 acres of agricultural land.
State media showed a reservoir dam collapsing under the pressure of floodwaters, while rescue personnel used inflatable boats to evacuate stranded residents from submerged areas.
Chinese authorities have dispatched additional relief supplies, including food, raincoats and rescue boats, to support affected communities.
Why Are Authorities Concerned About More Flooding?
China’s State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters has maintained the second-highest flood emergency response level in Guangxi as forecasts indicate continued heavy rainfall.
Water Resources Minister Li Guoying warned that flood levels at the Wuzhou Hydrological Station are expected to rise more than six metres above warning levels by early Thursday, increasing pressure on reservoirs, embankments and flood-control infrastructure.
Officials cautioned that prolonged heavy rainfall and sustained high water levels pose significant risks to public safety and critical infrastructure.
What Damage Has Been Reported in Hubei?
In central Hubei province, thunderstorms, gale-force winds and reported tornadoes killed 11 people and injured 331 others.
Authorities said one person remains missing, while approximately 4,800 homes sustained damage and 22 buildings collapsed during the severe weather.
Emergency crews continue damage assessments and rescue operations across affected areas.
What Is the Latest on the Gansu Landslide?
In a separate disaster, authorities confirmed that the death toll from Tuesday’s landslide in Dangchang County, Gansu province, has risen to 21 after rescue operations concluded.
The landslide struck Rencang village early Tuesday morning, burying dozens of people. Officials said the cause remains under investigation.
The Chinese government has allocated 30 million yuan (approximately US$4.4 million) for reconstruction and recovery efforts in the affected area.
How Is China Responding?
Chinese President Xi Jinping directed emergency agencies to “go all out” in conducting rescue operations and assisting affected communities.
Authorities remain on high alert as heavy rainfall is forecast to continue across Guangxi and neighbouring Guangdong province, raising concerns over additional flooding and further damage.