Over 80,000 Evacuated, Six Dead as Severe Flooding Hits Guizhou Province Including Rongjiang County; Emergency Response Activated

Severe flooding caused by continuous heavy rainfall and upstream inflows has affected Guizhou Province in southwest China, resulting in the evacuation of over 80,000 people. The flooding, described as the worst in 30 years and a "once-in-50-year event," primarily impacted two counties, including Rongjiang. The floods have led to at least six confirmed deaths in Rongjiang County. In response to the rising water levels, local authorities reactivated the highest-level emergency flood response on June 28, which involved the urgent evacuation and relocation of nearly 12,000 households and more than 41,000 individuals.

Fresh floodwaters swept through Rongjiang County shortly after the initial deluge, but by June 29, the highest-level flood control response was ended and clearing and rebuilding efforts commenced. The recovery process involved coordinated efforts from the government, the People's Liberation Army, armed police, firefighters, and local residents, enabling rapid recovery within seven hours. Community support included villagers preparing free meals for rescue teams. The flooding caused multiple rivers to overflow, prompting authorities to urge residents in low-lying areas to seek higher ground. Evacuees were relocated to safer zones within Rongjiang County. The Zangke River scenic area in Liupanshui, also in Guizhou, was notably affected by the heavy rains and flooding.