Heavy rains have triggered severe flooding in southwest China, forcing more than 80,000 people to flee their homes. The affected areas, particularly in Guizhou and Guangxi provinces, saw dramatic scenes as rivers overflowed, bridges collapsed, and entire villages became submerged.
Torrential Rains Sweep Through Guizhou, Flooding Villages and Collapsing Bridges
In recent days, the southwestern province of Guizhou has seen unprecedented downpours as rivers like the Rongjiang overflowed their banks. In one mountainous area, floodwaters overran a major bridge, sending a goods-laden truck plunging toward a ravine before rescue teams intervened. Rongjiang County alone, nearly 3 meters of water submerged a football field and inundated homes, forcing rapid evacuations. Rescue teams used boats to ferry residents to safety amid waist-deep, murky water as entire streets disappeared beneath the flood.
Drone Rescues and Emergency Evacuations Take Center Stage in Affected Towns
Local authorities quickly activated emergency protocols, evacuating around 80,900 people by Tuesday afternoon through coordinated boat rescues and helicopter supports. In flooded villages, drones dropped emergency supplies like rice and bottled water to those isolated by fast-moving water. A truck driver, who narrowly escaped falling into a chasm, described how a bridge collapsed in front of him a terrifying moment he survived thanks to careful rescue planning.
Extreme Weather Heightening Risk During China’s Monsoon and Typhoon Seasons
This alarming flood event follows a pattern of extreme weather in China, where intense rainfall driven by the East Asian monsoon and tropical storms often clashes with record-breaking heatwaves. Earlier this season, Typhoon Wutip forced tens of thousands from their homes in nearby Guangdong and Guangxi provinces. Now, Guizhou’s flood alerts reached the highest level, highlighting the region’s growing vulnerability.
Local Residents Describe Harrowing Moments Amid Sudden Flooding
Many residents spoke of sudden rises in water levels. One local, Long Tian, told reporters he fled to the third floor of his home when waters burst through doorways and windows. Another driver, You Guochun, shared the terrifying moment when a bridge gave way beneath him, leaving him stranded before rescue teams arrived. Stories like these are now common as communities struggle to cope with the sudden onslaught of floodwaters.
Government Launches Emergency Relief and Flood Defense Funding
In response, Chinese authorities have mobilized rescue workers, deployed boats, drones, and emergency crews to assist with evacuations. The central government allocated over 100 million yuan (approx. US $14 m) for disaster relief in Guizhou. This includes funding for repairing damaged infrastructure, rebuilding bridges, and assisting flood victims with temporary housing and food supplies.
Long-Term Outlook Adapting to Climate-Driven Flood Risk in China
Experts warn that climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of such events in China. The country experienced its hottest year on record recently, and flood and heat warnings have surged nationwide. Governments are urging all provinces to improve early warning systems, flood defenses, and long-term resilience plans. Analysts say such proactive steps are vital to protecting communities and infrastructure from further climate-driven disasters.
