HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – Following intense rainfall that led to flooding and the threat of landslides, more than 55,000 individuals have been evacuated from high-risk zones across China Sea island. Local authorities intensified evacuation efforts through September 14 as rising rivers and inundation impacted vulnerable communities. The operations targeted low-lying districts, areas near waterways, and sites prone to geological instability. Emergency responders also arranged temporary shelters and provided essential supplies for residents unable to return home.
The adverse weather conditions originated on September 11 when a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacted with cold air. This caused heavy rain to spread across southern and central parts of Hainan, affecting regions such as Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Many communities experienced flooded roads and disrupted access as rainfall intensified. Local officials closely monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountain zones while rescue teams evacuated residents from zones facing imminent danger.
Rainfall levels reached record highs before the storm system weakened. Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14. Six other townships received over 700 millimeters during the same timeframe, with three exceeding 800 millimeters. The extended period of rain increased the likelihood of flash floods and landslides across several parts of the island.
Evacuations expand across impacted regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 residents as conditions worsened, with numbers surpassing 55,000 by 6 p.m. the following day. The Ministry of Emergency Management led the coordination of emergency operations across affected cities and counties. Efforts prioritized residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other flood-prone or geologically unstable locations.
Floodwaters and landslides caused damage to roads and disrupted electricity and communication services in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams accessed affected communities where roads remained passable. Utility crews began restoring power and communication lines as rainfall eased and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel also inspected isolated settlements and transportation routes, while local authorities continued damage assessment and relief activities.
Relief efforts commence as rainfall diminishes
On September 15, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning after a significant decrease in rainfall across much of the province. Officials announced that the extreme weather event had mostly concluded, paving the way for recovery efforts in more communities. Some schools resumed classes where conditions allowed, and workers cleared mud, reopened roads, and repaired infrastructure damaged during the storm, enabling residents to start returning to safer areas.
During the emergency, the Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan. Provincial authorities also downgraded the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were dispatched to the affected zones to support local recovery efforts. The ongoing work includes repairing damaged roads, restoring utilities, and addressing the aftermath of several days of heavy rainfall.