Major rivers, waterways, and reservoirs in China’s Guangdong province are experiencing dangerously high water levels, putting more than 127 million people at risk of flooding. Local weather officials have described the situation as “grim,” with sections of rivers and tributaries at the Xijiang and Beijiang river basins reaching levels that occur only once every 50 years. The water resource ministry has issued an emergency advisory, prompting the government to enact emergency response plans to protect residents.
The province, known for its exports and commercial activities, has been hit by heavy downpours and strong winds for several days, causing widespread damage and disruptions. A 12-hour spell of heavy rain over the weekend further exacerbated the situation in central and northern parts of Guangdong, leading to evacuations and power outages. More than 45,000 people have been evacuated in Qingyuan, while over 1 million households lost power in the region due to the heavy rains. Schools in Zhaoqing, Shaoguan, and Qingyuan have been suspended as a precautionary measure.
Residents have taken to social media to share their experiences, with reports of flooding turning areas into water towns, power outages, and road closures. Videos circulating online showed floodwaters sweeping vehicles down streets in Zhaoqing, highlighting the severity of the situation. Authorities in Qingyuan and Shaoguan have suspended ships from traveling through certain rivers to ensure safety, while hydrological stations in the province have reported water levels exceeding alerts. In Guangzhou, reservoirs have reached flood limits, prompting city officials to take precautionary measures.
In neighboring Guangxi, violent hurricane-like winds have caused destruction, with video footage showing buildings being damaged. The region has also experienced hailstones and major flooding, further adding to the natural disaster crisis. Rescuers have been working to save individuals stranded in floodwaters, with reports of landslides and dangerous conditions in various parts of Guangxi. Weather forecasters are predicting heavy rain to continue through Monday in Guangxi, Guangdong, Fujian, and Zhejiang provinces, raising concerns about further flooding and possible landslides.
Given the scale and severity of the flooding in Guangdong and Guangxi, emergency response teams have been deployed to assist with rescue and relief efforts. Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines to minimize risks. The government has allocated resources for disaster relief, including food, clothing, and shelter, to support those affected by the floods. As weather conditions continue to pose challenges, coordination between various agencies and communities is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals living in the affected regions.
