Maps
Magazine

Climate

Bridge Collapse in Northwestern China Claims 11 Lives Amid Torrential Rains
At least 11 people have died and 30 are missing after a bridge collapsed in Shaanxi province due to severe flooding. Rescue operations are underway.
ND
by News Desk
2024-07-20
Bridge Collapse in Northwestern China Claims 11 Lives Amid Torrential Rains

A devastating bridge collapse in northwestern China has resulted in at least 11 confirmed deaths and left 30 people missing. The incident occurred in Zhashui County, Shangluo City, Shaanxi province, on Friday night following intense downpours and flash floods.

According to Chinese state media, the bridge, which was a crucial highway link, collapsed at approximately 8:40 p.m. local time. Nearly 20 vehicles and more than 30 individuals are reported to be missing. The collapse was triggered by the sudden and severe flooding that overwhelmed the area.

Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Rescue teams are actively working at the scene, recovering vehicles from the water. To date, five vehicles have been retrieved, and all 11 confirmed deaths were found within these vehicles. The submerged bridge section was shown in local media footage with water rushing over it.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for comprehensive rescue operations and emphasized the importance of flood control. He urged local governments to enhance monitoring and early warning systems to prevent such tragedies.

The national fire and rescue authority has mobilized a significant response, deploying 859 personnel, 90 vehicles, 20 boats, and 41 drones to aid in the rescue efforts.

Widespread Flooding

The bridge collapse is part of a broader pattern of severe weather affecting northern and central China. Earlier this week, Baoji city in Shaanxi experienced deadly floods and mudslides, resulting in five deaths and eight people missing. Neighboring provinces, including Gansu and Henan, have also suffered from relentless rains.

Nanyang city in Henan reported receiving a year’s worth of rainfall in a single week, exacerbating the flooding crisis.

Extreme Weather Challenges

China has faced a summer of extreme weather events, including severe flooding in central and southern regions and intense heatwaves in the north. Earlier this month, a tornado in eastern China resulted in one death and 79 injuries. In May, mountain floods and landslides in Hunan and Guangdong provinces claimed 38 lives and caused significant damage.

Scientists attribute the increased frequency and severity of such weather events to climate change driven by greenhouse gas emissions.

Looking Forward

The current crisis underscores the urgent need for enhanced infrastructure resilience and effective flood management strategies to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events.
Tagged:

ExtremeWeather

ChinaFloods

BridgeCollapse

Shaanxi
Share News: