Severe Flooding Hits South China’s Major Rivers Amid Persistent Downpours
Persistent heavy rains have led to severe flooding across south China’s major river systems, with the Xijiang River in the Pearl River basin flooding for the third time this year as of Thursday afternoon, according to the Ministry of Water Resources.
This marks the 10th flood in the Pearl River basin since the 2024 flood season began, signaling an unusually intense monsoon season impacting the region’s waterways.
Rivers connected to Poyang Lake and Dongting Lake, China’s two largest freshwater lakes, have seen water levels surpass warning marks. The middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River are experiencing rising water levels, heightening concerns over potential widespread flooding in densely populated areas.
Between Wednesday and Thursday, water levels of 22 rivers across provinces including Jiangxi, Hunan, Guangxi, and Zhejiang have exceeded their warning levels. Local authorities are on high alert, implementing emergency response measures to safeguard communities and critical infrastructure.
Experts attribute the persistent downpours to complex climatic patterns affecting the region. “The continuous heavy rainfall is putting significant pressure on our flood control systems,” commented a representative from the Ministry of Water Resources. “We are coordinating efforts to monitor river levels and reinforce embankments where necessary.”
Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to safety instructions issued by local authorities. Preparations are underway to mitigate the impact of potential flooding, including evacuation plans for vulnerable communities.
The economic implications are also significant, as flooding poses risks to agriculture, transportation, and industry in the region. Business professionals and investors are closely monitoring the situation, considering the potential disruptions to supply chains and local markets.
For travelers and culture enthusiasts, the flooding may affect access to certain destinations and cultural sites. Those planning to visit the affected regions should stay updated on travel advisories and adjust their plans accordingly.
The ongoing situation underscores the importance of robust disaster preparedness and climate resilience strategies in the face of increasingly frequent extreme weather events.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
