More than 10,000 residents have been urgently evacuated in Baoding, a major city in China's northern Hebei province, as torrential rains continue to batter the region. Local authorities report that floodwaters have submerged entire neighbourhoods, forcing emergency responders into action.
State of Emergency Declared
Chinese state media confirms that rescue teams are working around the clock, using boats to reach stranded citizens. The flooding follows days of unusually heavy rainfall that has overwhelmed drainage systems and caused rivers to burst their banks.
Critical Infrastructure at Risk
Officials warn that the situation remains precarious with several key roads underwater and power supplies to some areas disrupted. Meteorologists predict further rainfall in coming days, potentially exacerbating the crisis.
Climate Change Connection
Environmental experts suggest these extreme weather events align with patterns of climate disruption observed across Asia. "What we're seeing in Baoding reflects the new normal of intensified rainfall and flooding in urban areas," noted one climate scientist.
The Chinese government has activated its national flood response system, coordinating efforts between military units and civilian emergency services to protect vulnerable populations.
