At least 16 people have been killed and dozens more remain missing after catastrophic flash floods struck China's northwestern Gansu province following torrential rainfall. The sudden deluge has triggered a massive emergency response, with President Xi Jinping calling for "all-out" rescue efforts.
Emergency Response Mobilised
Chinese state media reports that the floods, which hit late on Friday night, have caused widespread destruction across multiple rural counties. Rescue teams including firefighters, police and military personnel have been deployed to search for survivors trapped in mudslides and collapsed buildings.
President Xi's Directive
President Xi Jinping has personally intervened, ordering authorities to "give top priority to ensuring people's safety and property" while coordinating disaster relief work. The Chinese leader emphasised the need for comprehensive search operations and proper arrangements for affected residents.
Scale of the Disaster
Preliminary reports indicate:
- Over 4,700 homes severely damaged or destroyed
- Critical infrastructure including roads and bridges washed away
- Power outages affecting thousands of residents
- Agricultural land submerged under floodwaters
Local meteorological officials recorded rainfall exceeding 100mm in some areas within just a few hours - an unprecedented volume for the normally arid region.
Ongoing Challenges
Rescue operations continue to face significant obstacles:
- Remote mountainous terrain making access difficult
- Continued risk of further landslides
- Disrupted communications in worst-affected areas
- Forecasts predicting more rain in coming days
The provincial government has established temporary shelters for displaced residents while dispatching emergency supplies including food, water and medical equipment to the disaster zone.
