Heavy rainfall has caused significant landslides and mudslides in Baoji City, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, leading to major traffic disruptions, local authorities reported on Wednesday.
Sections of two highways and an expressway in Baoji have been interrupted due to the adverse weather conditions. Despite the severity of the situation, no casualties have been reported so far, providing a small relief amid the challenges.
According to Shaanxi’s meteorological observatory, Baoji City experienced an average precipitation of 67.4 millimeters between 6 a.m. on Tuesday and 6 a.m. on Wednesday. The highest recorded precipitation in the area reached a staggering 209 millimeters, intensifying concerns over potential flooding and further landslides.
In response to the escalating situation, the province activated a Level IV emergency response for flood control at 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Additionally, Baoji authorities issued a flash flood warning at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, urging residents and travelers to exercise caution.
The heavy rains have not only disrupted transportation but also raised alarms about the safety of communities in the affected areas. Emergency teams are working tirelessly to clear debris and restore normalcy. Motorists are advised to avoid the impacted routes and follow updates from local traffic authorities.
The recent weather events highlight the challenges faced by regions prone to heavy rainfall during this season. Authorities emphasize the importance of preparedness and timely response to mitigate the impact of natural disasters.
(Cover image: An excavator clears mud on a street in Baoji City, Shaanxi Province, northwest China, July 17, 2024. /CFP)
Reference(s):
Rain-triggered landslides, mudslides halt traffic in Shaanxi
cgtn.com
