Anhui Province, China – Torrential rainstorms have ravaged east China’s Anhui Province, affecting over 811,000 residents and forcing the evacuation of 195,000 people, according to local authorities on Sunday.
As of 4 p.m. on Sunday, relentless downpours have wreaked havoc across 35 counties and districts within six prefecture-level cities. The provincial emergency management department reports extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture, as communities grapple with rising waters.
The Yangtze River, the longest river in China, has seen water levels in its Anhui section surpass warning marks, with levels continuing to rise. The surging waters pose significant risks to nearby settlements and critical farmland. Beyond the Yangtze, torrential rains have elevated water levels in another 19 rivers across the province, pushing them above alert thresholds.
In the 24 hours leading up to 5 p.m. on Sunday, vast areas of Anhui were lashed by heavy rainfall, with 258 weather stations recording precipitation exceeding 100 millimeters. The highest recorded rainfall reached 255 millimeters, exacerbating flood conditions and challenging response efforts.
In response to the escalating situation, authorities in eight cities, including five along the Yangtze River, have mobilized a total of 26,000 personnel to patrol dikes and reinforce flood defenses. Emergency services are working around the clock to safeguard communities, strengthen embankments, and coordinate evacuations where necessary.
The severe weather has prompted concerns about the impact on agriculture and the regional economy. Anhui Province, a key agricultural hub, faces potential losses in crop yields, which could have broader implications for food supply and commodity markets.
Residents affected by the floods have been relocated to temporary shelters, where they are receiving essential supplies and assistance. Local governments have been urged to prioritize safety and implement effective measures to mitigate further damage.
Meteorological agencies warn that heavy rains may continue in the coming days, and authorities are maintaining high alert levels. The situation is being closely monitored as efforts intensify to manage floodwaters and prevent further disasters.
The flooding in Anhui highlights the challenges posed by extreme weather events in the region, emphasizing the need for resilient infrastructure and proactive disaster management strategies.
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195,000 people evacuated due to rainstorms in east China province
cgtn.com
