Torrential rains have unleashed chaos in southwest China's Yunnan Province, triggering landslides, damaging infrastructure, and displacing thousands of residents across mountainous regions. Authorities report no fatalities but warn of persistent risks as meteorological alerts remain active.
In Nujiang Lisu Autonomous Prefecture, over 5,800 residents across 1,652 households were affected by Sunday's downpours. Critical infrastructure suffered severe blows, with 27 houses damaged, 16 bridges impaired, and 97 road sections blocked. A popular scenic area and observation platform were temporarily closed as a precaution.
Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture faced parallel challenges as landslides and flash floods severed transportation routes. The Meri Snow Mountain scenic zone evacuated 300 tourists amid rising waters, while fog hampered rescue operations. Fire crews in Deqen County successfully relocated 331 residents and rescued 138 others trapped by floodwaters.
Over 1,700 residents across both prefectures have been urgently relocated to safety. Transportation teams are working around the clock to clear debris and restore connectivity, deploying heavy machinery to repair damaged roads.
Meteorological authorities caution that continued rainfall through the week maintains high risks of secondary disasters, urging residents and travelers to heed evacuation orders. The incidents highlight growing climate challenges in Yunnan's ecologically fragile mountainous regions, where seasonal rains frequently test disaster response systems.
