Expert Links SW China’s Deadly Mudslide to Shifting Rainfall Patterns
A devastating mudslide triggered by torrential rains struck Ridi Village in Kangding City on Saturday, claiming at least 10 lives, with 17 others still missing. The village, nestled in a valley surrounded by towering mountains in Ganzi Zang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, was heavily impacted by the natural disaster.
Rescue efforts are underway as emergency teams navigate the challenging terrain to search for survivors and recover bodies. The mudslide has not only caused tragic loss of life but also significant damage to homes and infrastructure, leaving the local community in distress.
Professor Wang Yunsheng from the State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection at Chengdu University of Technology is on-site, assisting with the rescue mission. He attributes the mudslide to shifting rainfall patterns caused by changes in global weather phenomena.
“The primary factors influencing the global climate have shifted from El Niño to La Niña, resulting in noticeable changes in weather patterns,” explained Professor Wang. “In China, there has been a significant shift in heavy rainfall towards the north and west. Areas that were previously drought-stricken are now experiencing increased rainfall.”
He noted that this year, unprecedented heavy rains have occurred north of the Qinling Mountains. “In Sichuan Province, heavy rains, which typically occurred in the basins, have now moved westward, as is the case with Ganzi Zang Autonomous Prefecture,” said Wang.
The alteration in rainfall distribution has heightened the risk of geohazards such as mudslides and landslides in regions unaccustomed to such extreme weather events. Experts are urging authorities to enhance monitoring and early warning systems in these vulnerable areas.
Local residents are grappling with the aftermath of the disaster. Many have lost their homes and are in urgent need of shelter and basic supplies. Humanitarian aid is being mobilized to support those affected.
The tragic event underscores the broader impacts of global climate shifts and the need for increased preparedness for natural disasters in regions experiencing new weather patterns.
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Expert links SW China's deadly mudslide to shifting rainfall patterns
cgtn.com
