Rescue teams in southwest China's Guizhou Province are battling difficult conditions to locate survivors after two landslides struck Dafang County on May 22. The disasters, which hit Changshi and Guowa Towns during morning hours, trapped residents from eight households. As of Sunday, four fatalities have been confirmed, with 17 individuals still unaccounted for.
Race Against Time
Heavy machinery and manual search teams are combing through debris despite unstable terrain and intermittent rainfall. Local authorities have mobilized emergency resources, including drones and thermal imaging equipment, to aid operations. "Every minute counts," said a rescue coordinator at the scene. "We're coordinating with geologists to prevent secondary disasters."
Community Impact
The landslides have displaced over 200 residents, now temporarily housed in nearby schools and community centers. Medical teams are providing psychological support to affected families while supply convoys deliver essentials to the remote mountainous region.
Broader Context
Guizhou's rugged landscape makes it prone to seasonal landslides, particularly during the May-September rainy season. Recent infrastructure improvements, including early warning systems installed in 2022, helped evacuate three villages prior to the disaster, potentially preventing higher casualties.
