A dike breach occurred at Dongting Lake in Huarong County, central China’s Hunan Province, at 5:48 p.m. on Friday following failed emergency repair efforts. The sudden breach prompted a swift evacuation, with 5,755 residents safely relocated from the affected area. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, according to the local flood control department.
By 10 p.m., the breach had expanded to approximately 8 meters in width and 150 meters in length. The rapid overflow of lake water through the gap posed a significant risk to nearby communities, particularly Tuanbei Village in Tuanzhou Township. The inundated area covers about 50 square kilometers, an area that notably experienced a similar dike breach in 1996.
Emergency response teams were immediately deployed, with sand carrier ships and trucks dispatched to the scene to assist in filling the gap. Local authorities mobilized resources to accommodate the displaced residents, providing 1,000 tents, 3,200 folding beds, 3,200 summer cooling mats, and 3,200 mattresses to ensure their safety and comfort.
The breach comes amid the heaviest rainfall Hunan Province has experienced this year. Since June 16, relentless downpours have battered the region, breaking historical records in some areas. Dongting Lake, China’s second-largest freshwater lake, has seen rising water levels due to the sustained precipitation, heightening concerns over flood control and infrastructure resilience.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, working to contain the breach and mitigate further damage. The safety of residents remains the top priority, with efforts focused on immediate relief and implementing long-term solutions to prevent future incidents.
