Authorities in the southern region of China reported on Thursday that 39 individuals lost their lives due to flooding caused by tropical storm Maysak. Concurrently, Taiwan and the eastern coast of China are preparing for another significant storm set to hit in the upcoming days. The majority of the fatalities were a result of a dam breach in an area east of Nanning, claiming 26 lives, according to Ding Wei, the vice mayor of the city. Additionally, nine individuals are still missing in the wider Guangxi region.
Tropical storm Maysak brought unprecedented levels of rainfall to Guangxi beginning last Saturday, leading to the breaching of reservoirs and leaving people stranded in their residences for days. Initially, the death toll was reported as six individuals. Typhoon Bavi is anticipated to pass just north of Taiwan, bringing heavy rainfall to the island’s population of 23 million and is expected to make landfall in either Zhejiang or Fujian province on Saturday.
Authorities in Taiwan have advised residents to stock up on essentials and prepare for a potentially severe typhoon, speculated to be the most potent to hit the island in recent years. The relentless heavy rain in southern Guangxi resulted in rainfall accumulation ranging from 10 to 40 centimeters in some areas, with over 90 centimeters in severely affected regions, as stated by the national meteorological center.
The breaches in the reservoirs unleashed torrents of water into urban areas and towns. A massive relief and rescue operation involving drones and approximately 5,700 boats has been undertaken to reach individuals stranded by the floods. Rescuers are facing challenges such as strong currents and debris while striving to access those in need. Around 130,000 people have been evacuated from the affected areas.
Although the floodwaters are subsiding, there are projections of further rainfall in certain regions over the next two days. Efforts are underway to clear mud and debris and disinfect several towns in Hengzhou city, located to the east of Nanning. Road restorations are in progress, and electricity has been reinstated in over 60,000 households, as per Ding’s statements.