At least 15 people killed by heavy rain and floods in China

"The latest round of torrential rain since Monday has killed 15 people and left four others missing in the southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing as of 7 a.m. on Wednesday," Xinhua news agency quoted local authorities as saying.

At least 15 people are wearing masks because of the large purchases and traffic in China, picture 1 — Rescuers evacuate stranded residents after a flood in Wanzhou, Chongqing, China, July 4, 2023. Photo: Xinhua

Flooding in Chongqing has forced thousands of people to flee their homes, with around 85,000 evacuated due to heavy rain. Chinese officials have warned that China will face “multiple natural disasters in July, including floods, severe convective weather, typhoons and high temperatures”.

Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping has asked "governments at all levels to give top priority to ensuring the safety of people and property," Chinese state media said.

Floods have caused economic losses of 227.8 million yuan ($31.5 million) in Wanzhou District, Chongqing. The Chongqing floods are believed to be one of the deadliest natural disasters in China to date.

In recent weeks, China has seen torrential rains causing devastating floods and deadly landslides, while hailstorms and unusually high temperatures have caused hardship in many parts of the country.

Scientists warn that rising global temperatures – largely due to the burning of fossil fuels – are increasing the likelihood of extreme weather events such as flash floods and heatwaves that have hit many Asian countries in recent weeks.

Huy Hoang (according to Xinhua News Agency, AFP, AP)

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