China’s Storm and Flood Fatalities Reach 15, Reports State Media
Poinews.com – State-run media confirmed on Tuesday that thunderstorms and strong winds have led to at least 15 deaths and 275 injuries across central China. The storms, which intensified on Monday, caused additional fatalities in the southern region due to heavy rainfall and flooding. In the Guangxi province, two people were reported dead after being swept away by floodwaters linked to Typhoon Maysak.
Central China’s Severe Weather Events
According to CCTV, multiple areas in Hubei province were affected by “severe convective weather,” with cities like Huangshi and Huanggang experiencing intense storms. The report noted that winds swept through these regions, resulting in eight casualties. Tornadoes were also reported in some zones, leaving nine individuals unaccounted for. In Huangzhou district, Xinhua stated that 275 people were injured, though specifics about the severity of their injuries were not disclosed.
“Thunderstorms and strong winds swept through cities including Huangshi and Huanggang, killing eight people,” reported state broadcaster CCTV.
Local authorities initiated evacuation efforts, relocating 408 residents to safer locations. Rescue teams are currently active, using life vests, helmets, and inflatable boats to search for survivors. The floods also forced the evacuation of 48,000 people in Guangxi as of Monday evening, with dams overwhelmed by torrential rain.
Leadership Urges Full-Force Response
Xi Jinping, China’s leader, called for comprehensive rescue operations, emphasizing the importance of swift action. “The need to go all out in organizing emergency rescue operations, treating the injured, and resettling affected residents is critical,” stated CCTV. The leader also highlighted the goal of effectively managing disaster prevention and relief efforts.
“The need to go all out in organizing emergency rescue operations, treating the injured, and resettling affected residents, carrying out disaster prevention and relief work effectively,” said state broadcaster CCTV.
Scientists have warned that global extreme weather events, such as the recent storms and floods, will become more frequent and intense as climate change progresses. Despite being the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, China is also a leader in renewable energy initiatives, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
