Thousands Evacuated After Flood Hits China

Heavy rainfall triggered by Typhoon Ewiniar has forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents in southern China, as floodwaters continue to surge across Guangdong Province.

According to local authorities, nearly 300,000 residents in Huaiji County, part of Zhaoqing City in Guangdong, have been affected by relentless downpours since Saturday. As of Wednesday afternoon, approximately 70,000 people were evacuated to safer areas as flood levels reached critical thresholds.

The torrential rains were caused by the combined impact of Typhoon Ewiniar, the first typhoon of the year, alongside a strong upper-level low-pressure system and the seasonal monsoon. The rainfall caused the water level at a key hydrological station on the Huaiji River to rise to 55.22 meters, surpassing the official danger level by 5.22 meters.

Flooding has affected 19 towns across the county, damaging dikes, roads, farmland, and other critical infrastructure. At least 15 people sustained injuries, although no life-threatening cases have been reported so far.

Emergency response teams have been deployed across the region, with over 10,000 personnel and more than 500 units of rescue equipment mobilized to support evacuation and disaster relief efforts. In response to the worsening situation, Huaiji County raised its flood emergency response to the highest level.

As a precaution, all schools, businesses, factories, and public transportation have been suspended across the county until conditions improve.