Heavy Rain Triggers Flooding in Beijing, Leaving 38 Dead
UPDATE: Catastrophic flooding around Beijing has resulted in at least 38 deaths as emergency rescue operations continue to unfold. Heavy rains, which began over the weekend, have led to widespread evacuations and power outages, impacting over 130 villages in the region. Authorities confirmed that the flood risk remains elevated through the evening of July 11, 2023.
In a statement, Premier Li Qiang labeled the situation in the Miyun District as critical, citing “serious casualties” and urging urgent rescue efforts. The latest data indicates that parts of Beijing received an average of 16 centimeters (6 inches) of rain, with some areas in Miyun reporting an astonishing 54 centimeters (21 inches).
The relentless storm has wreaked havoc, washing away vehicles, downing power lines, and causing landslides. Reports indicate that over 80,000 individuals have been evacuated, including around 17,000 from Miyun alone. The city government confirmed that 28 fatalities occurred in Miyun, with two additional deaths in the Yanqing District. In neighboring Hebei Province, four more victims were recovered following a landslide in rural Luanping county where eight individuals were initially reported missing.
The state broadcaster CCTV reported that emergency responders are facing ongoing challenges as more landslides have been triggered in the same areas. Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of devastation: uprooted trees and submerged streets in Taishitun, located approximately 100 kilometers (60 miles) northeast of central Beijing.
With communication lines severely disrupted and roads damaged in over 30 locations, the full extent of the damage is still unfolding. Rescue teams are working around the clock to locate missing persons and provide relief to those affected.
Authorities are advising residents to stay alert for further updates as the situation develops. The impact of this natural disaster highlights the urgent need for effective disaster preparedness and response in the face of increasingly severe weather patterns.
Stay tuned for more updates as rescue efforts continue and further information becomes available.
