In a tragic natural disaster, ten people have been confirmed dead and seventeen remain missing after a flash flood and mudslide struck Kangding City in southwest China’s Sichuan Province on Saturday.
The disaster occurred at approximately 3:30 a.m. Beijing time, devastating the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Garze. The sudden deluge toppled a tunnel bridge and destroyed homes in Ridi Village, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
The collapse of the bridge resulted in four vehicles plunging into the water with eleven people inside. Among them, three have been confirmed dead, one person was rescued, and seven are still missing.
In Ridi Village, the situation remains dire. Seven villagers lost their lives, and ten others are unaccounted for as rescue efforts continue. The village, nestled in a valley at an altitude of 1,300 meters, sits beneath mountains soaring over 5,000 meters above sea level, making the rescue operations challenging.
A massive search and rescue mission is underway, with 1,698 rescuers and over 400 pieces of equipment deployed to the frontline. Helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, excavators, and communication vehicles have been mobilized to aid in the efforts.
Local authorities are working tirelessly to locate the missing and provide assistance to those affected. The combination of steep terrain and unstable conditions has made the rescue operations complex, but teams remain committed to reaching survivors.
The disaster has highlighted the vulnerability of mountainous regions in the face of extreme weather events. As climate patterns shift, communities in such areas may face increased risks of sudden floods and landslides.
Authorities have urged residents in similar regions to stay vigilant, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. Emergency services are on high alert to respond to any further incidents.
