Beijing: Southern China is grappling with severe flooding as relentless downpours have inundated several provinces, prompting the National Meteorological Centre to issue urgent flood and heavy rain warnings. The regions of Jiangxi, Fujian, Guangxi, Guangdong, and Guizhou are experiencing the most intense storms of the year, leading to significant disruptions and casualties.
In Jiangxi province, rainfall has surpassed 150 millimeters in certain areas, raising concerns over potential mountain floods and geological disasters. Guangxi authorities are on high alert for flash floods, while in Guizhou, landslides have trapped dozens, necessitating military-led rescue operations. The extreme weather conditions have resulted in at least 13 fatalities and several individuals reported missing across the affected provinces.
Transportation has been notably impacted, with train services in Shenzhen suspended on May 28 and 29 as a precautionary measure against the heavy rains. The persistent rainfall has led to localized flooding, further complicating rescue and relief efforts.
Meteorologists attribute the increasing frequency and severity of such extreme weather events to climate change, emphasizing China's vulnerability due to its vast population and diverse geography. Authorities are urging residents in the affected regions to remain vigilant and adhere to safety advisories as efforts continue to mitigate the impact of the floods.