Severe flooding and relentless heavy rainfall across central and southern parts of China have left at least 22 people dead while another 20 remain missing, according to state media reports released on Wednesday. The deadly weather has caused widespread destruction, forced thousands from their homes, and disrupted daily life in several provinces.
Authorities said some regions experienced record breaking rainfall over the past few days, leading to dangerous floods, landslides, and infrastructure damage. Schools and workplaces in multiple affected areas were temporarily closed as emergency services rushed to rescue stranded residents and provide relief support.
In the central province of Hunan, officials confirmed that five people lost their lives while 11 others are still missing after continuous downpours triggered flooding in mountainous areas. Reports indicated that more than 61,000 residents in one county alone were impacted by the disaster.
The southern region of Guangxi also suffered major losses. Ten people died after a truck attempting to cross a flooded route plunged into a swollen river during the weekend. Rescue teams continue search operations in nearby areas affected by rising water levels.
Meanwhile, the province of Guizhou reported four deaths and five missing persons as floodwaters submerged roads and residential communities. In Hubei, three people died while four others went missing after severe rainstorms damaged buildings and cut communication links with remote villages.
Chinese authorities have allocated more than 150 million yuan in emergency relief funds to support rescue efforts and assist affected communities. Nearly 24,000 residents have already been evacuated from dangerous areas as weather experts warn that more rainfall is expected in the coming days.
Scientists continue to link the growing intensity of extreme weather events to climate change and rising global temperatures caused by fossil fuel emissions.
