At least 10 people have died and 33 remain missing following severe flash floods triggered by continuous heavy rains starting August 7 in Yuzhong County, North-Central Gansu Province, China. The floods have caused widespread destruction, displacing thousands and cutting off essential services.
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Landslides and Rescue Efforts Underway
The Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that the flash floods were worsened by a landslide in the region. Rescue operations are ongoing, with efforts focused on reaching over 4,000 trapped residents in the Jinglong Mountain area. Power and telecommunications remain disrupted, complicating emergency responses across four affected villages.
Chinese Leadership Calls for Swift Action
Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged authorities to make an “extreme effort” to locate and rescue missing persons. He emphasized the need for heightened vigilance to mitigate risks associated with extreme weather events and prevent further casualties.
China’s Climate Challenges and Natural Disaster Vulnerability
Floods, landslides, and heatwaves frequently affect China, especially during the summer months. In July alone, heavy rains caused 44 deaths in northern Beijing’s rural outskirts. The country’s vulnerability is intensified by climate change, fueled partly by China’s status as the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter. Rising global temperatures increase the frequency and severity of such extreme weather events.
China’s Commitment to Climate Change Mitigation
Despite being the top emitter of carbon dioxide, China leads in renewable energy development and has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Investments in green technologies and clean energy are central to China’s strategy to combat climate change and reduce the impact of natural disasters.
Ongoing Emergency Response and Recovery
Rescue teams continue their efforts to locate missing individuals and assist flood victims. Authorities are also working to restore electricity, telecommunications, and other vital services in the hardest-hit areas. The situation remains fluid, with updates expected as more information becomes available.
Conclusion
The flash floods in Gansu Province highlight the urgent need for effective disaster preparedness amid worsening climate challenges. China’s dual role as a leading emitter and a renewable energy pioneer underscores the complex path toward reducing climate risks and protecting vulnerable communities.