A devastating typhoon has swept through southern China, leaving dozens of people stranded on rooftops as floodwaters engulfed low-lying areas. The storm, which made landfall early Thursday, brought torrential rains and winds exceeding 150 kilometers per hour, triggering widespread flooding and landslides.
Rescue Efforts Intensify
Emergency services have been deployed across the affected regions, with helicopters and boats working to rescue those trapped. In the city of Guangzhou, at least 30 people were reported to be stranded on the roofs of their homes after flash floods inundated entire neighborhoods. According to local authorities, rescue operations are ongoing, but challenging weather conditions are hampering progress.
Impact on Infrastructure
The typhoon has caused significant damage to infrastructure, including power outages affecting over 200,000 households. Roads and railways have been disrupted, with many routes blocked by fallen trees and debris. The government has urged residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
“We have never seen such heavy rainfall in such a short period,” said a spokesperson for the China Meteorological Administration. “The situation remains critical, and we are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of those affected.”
Historical Context
This typhoon is one of the strongest to hit the region in recent years, comparable to Typhoon Mangkhut in 2018. Climate scientists have warned that such extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to global warming.
