Severe Flooding in Southern China
More than 100,000 people have been evacuated due to heavy rain and fatal floods in southern China. The government has issued its highest-level rainstorm warning for the affected area, with torrential rains lashing Guangdong province in recent days.
Unprecedented Rainfall
State media reported that the flooding could be of the sort only “seen around once a century.” Areas like Shenzhen are experiencing heavy to very heavy downpours, with a very high risk of flash floods.
Evacuations and Rescues
Reports indicate that over 45,000 people have been evacuated from Qingyuan, a city in northern Guangdong. In total, 110,000 residents across Guangdong have been relocated since the heavy downpours began. Tragically, at least four people have died and 10 are missing.
Climate Change Impact
Climate change, driven by human-emitted greenhouse gases, is making extreme weather events more frequent and intense. China, as the world’s biggest emitter, is experiencing the effects of this environmental crisis.
Response Efforts
Soldiers are actively involved in clearing away debris caused by landslides and flooding. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions and stay away from dangerous areas prone to flooding. Heavy rain is expected to continue in the region for the next few hours.
Previous Extreme Weather Events
In recent years, China has faced severe floods, droughts, and record heatwaves. However, quick deployment of response measures has helped reduce casualties compared to previous decades.
Regional Impact
Asia was identified as the world’s most disaster-hit region in 2023 due to climate and weather hazards. Floods and storms were the primary causes of casualties and economic losses, as reported by the United Nations.