China Warns of More Floods as Extreme Storms Hit World’s No.2 Economy
Central and southern China are on high alert for more flash floods as extreme storms continue to wreak havoc in the world’s second-largest economy. The threat of disruption looms large as numerous rivers have surged above warning levels, causing widespread flooding and damage across the region. President Xi Jinping has called for all-out efforts to protect lives and property in the face of these escalating disasters.
State media reports that the Songliao Basin, located north of Beijing and encompassing parts of four provinces and several major cities, is particularly at risk. With 90 rivers already rising above warning levels and 24 overflowing their banks, crews are on standby to defend homes and farmland from the ravages of the rising waters.
China has been experiencing extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall, flooding, and heatwaves, which have been described as the “new normal” for the country. In April alone, China suffered losses of nearly 12 billion yuan ($1.65 billion) due to heavy rainfall and floods, marking the worst such disaster in a decade. In June, dozens of people lost their lives and the country faced rising river levels, with Guilin, the capital city of Guangxi province, particularly hard hit.
The Ministry of Water Resources has reported that water levels on Taihu Lake, the third-largest freshwater lake in China, near Shanghai, continue to rise. With flood levels surpassing safety thresholds at 54 monitoring stations in the surrounding river network, the situation remains precarious.
Despite the challenges posed by climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, China is striving to enhance its urban resilience and flood control capabilities. Promoting strategies to mitigate flood risks and strengthen economic resilience are key priorities as authorities work to safeguard lives and property from future disasters.
In the face of these mounting challenges, it is essential for policymakers and citizens alike to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the threats posed by severe weather and flooding. By prioritizing urban resilience and effective disaster preparedness measures, China can better protect its citizens and ensure the long-term stability of its economy.
