At least 10 people have died, and 33 remain missing following severe flash floods in Yuzhong County, located in China’s north-central Gansu province. The floods, triggered by continuous heavy rains that began on August 7, have left thousands stranded and caused widespread devastation.
What Happened
According to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, the flash floods were compounded by a landslide in the region, and rescue operations are currently underway. The floods have left more than 4,000 people stranded in the Xinglong mountain area, with power and telecommunications services cut off. The affected population is spread across four villages.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the “utmost effort” to locate and rescue the missing individuals. He also urged all regions to avoid complacency and increase efforts to identify and mitigate risks associated with extreme weather events.
The Bigger Picture: China’s Vulnerability to Natural Disasters
Natural disasters, including floods, landslides, and heatwaves, are common in China, especially during the summer months. The country faces significant climatic challenges, with some areas experiencing intense rainfall while others suffer from extreme heat. In July, heavy rains in northern Beijing caused 44 fatalities, particularly affecting the rural suburbs.
China’s vulnerability to these disasters is linked to its role as the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change and exacerbate extreme weather patterns. As the planet warms, the frequency and intensity of such events are expected to increase.
China’s Efforts to Tackle Climate Change
Despite being the largest emitter of carbon dioxide, China is also a global leader in renewable energy. The country has set ambitious goals to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The development of green technologies and investment in renewable energy sources is central to China’s strategy for addressing climate change and mitigating the impact of extreme weather.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
As of Friday, the rescue operation continues, with officials working to locate the missing individuals and provide assistance to those affected by the floods. The country’s emergency response teams are coordinating efforts to restore power, telecommunications, and essential services in the impacted regions.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.
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