At least four people have been confirmed dead and eight remain missing after relentless rainfall triggered a landslide in Luanping County, Hebei Province, as parts of northern China grapple with severe flooding and weather-related disasters.
According to official reports, the landslide occurred following days of unusually intense rainfall that swept across several provinces, including Beijing, Hebei, Shanxi, and Shaanxi. Rescue teams are currently engaged in continuous search operations for the missing as floodwaters continue to hinder emergency response efforts.
Widespread Displacement and Infrastructure Strain
In Beijing’s Miyun District, more than 4,400 residents were evacuated after floodwaters inundated low-lying areas. The Miyun Reservoir, a critical water source for the capital, recorded its highest inflow in decades at 6,550 cubic meters per second, raising concerns about dam safety and downstream flood risks.
In Fuping County, Hebei, over 4,600 people were displaced after torrential rains reached 145 millimeters per hour. The storm resulted in two fatalities and two individuals reported missing. Temporary shelters, including converted schools and community centers, have been set up to accommodate those affected.
Flood Alerts Across 11 Provinces
The Ministry of Water Resources has issued top-level flood warnings for 11 provinces, citing increased risks of mountain torrents, river overflows, and landslides. Several highways and railway lines have been closed due to water damage, and tens of thousands of residents have experienced power outages, particularly in remote and mountainous regions.
In Datong, Shanxi Province, rescue crews are working to locate a missing person after a vehicle was swept away by rising waters.
Government Response and Weather Outlook
The National Development and Reform Commission has allocated 50 million yuan (approximately 7 million US dollars) to support emergency relief and infrastructure repair. Local authorities have deployed thousands of first responders and military personnel to aid evacuations, fortify riverbanks, and restore essential services.
Meteorological officials warn that heavy rain is expected to persist for at least three more days, increasing the likelihood of further flooding and landslides in the affected areas.
Climate Warning and Agricultural Threats
Experts have attributed the intensity and frequency of recent rainfall events to climate change, with warmer atmospheric conditions fueling more extreme weather. The flooding threatens northern China’s agricultural sector, which is valued at over 2.8 trillion yuan, raising concerns about soil erosion, crop damage, and food security.
Summary
Casualties: Four dead and eight missing in Hebei due to landslide; two dead and two missing in Fuping County
Evacuations: Over 9,000 people displaced in Beijing and Hebei
Infrastructure: Power outages and transportation disruptions reported across several regions
Weather Outlook: Continued heavy rainfall expected over the next 72 hours
Government Action: Emergency relief fund allocated and high-level alerts issued across multiple provinces
Environmental Impact: Agricultural losses feared as climate-related extreme weather intensifies
Authorities are urging residents in vulnerable areas to remain on high alert and to comply with all emergency directives. Further updates will be provided as rescue operations and weather monitoring continue.
