A powerful tornado struck Guangzhou, the capital city of south China’s Guangdong Province, on Saturday afternoon, leaving five people dead and 33 others injured, according to local authorities.
The tornado swept through the city’s outskirts, causing significant damage to residential areas, infrastructure, and agricultural land. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the affected zones to assist with rescue operations and provide medical care to the injured.
“The suddenness of the tornado caught many residents off guard,” said an official from the Guangzhou Meteorological Bureau. “We are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all those impacted.”
Footage shared on social media showed overturned vehicles, uprooted trees, and damaged buildings. Local hospitals have been placed on high alert to treat the influx of patients, while temporary shelters have been set up for those displaced by the disaster.
Authorities have initiated a thorough assessment of the damage and are coordinating relief efforts. Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid affected areas as cleanup operations continue.
Guangzhou, a major commercial hub in the Chinese mainland, rarely experiences tornadoes of this magnitude. The event has raised concerns about extreme weather patterns and the need for enhanced emergency preparedness.
The provincial government has extended condolences to the families of the victims and pledged support for recovery efforts. Additional resources are being mobilized to restore normalcy in the region as quickly as possible.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
