China is experiencing heavy floods the days. Pictures of overturned cars and people trapped in flooded pathways are circulating on social media platforms.
Among others a shocking video from China’s Xinhua News shows commuters in neck-deep water inside a metro line at the Zhengzhou city.
So far at least 25 people have been killed in the downpour as China’s central Henan province records its heaviest rainfall in 1,000 years.
As per the concerned officials, Zhengzhou recorded 617.1 mm rainfall from Saturday to Tuesday. This is nearly the same as annual average rainfall in the city (640.8 mm).
As per reports, a total of 1.24 million people were affected by the flooding. And as many as 1,60,000 were evacuated.
Seven individuals are missing reportedly, while two were killed due to a wall collapse. Every year, China experiences flooding due to unchecked dams.
As per the meteorologists, the Henan province will experience more rain for the next three days. President Xi Jinping has deployed as many as 5,700 PLA soldiers to the city.
Reason behind heavy floods in China
Apart from loss of human lives, normal life like hospitals and schools have also been cut-off. For now, libraries, cinemas and museums have been turned into shelters for those stranded in the torrential rains.
This heavy downpour has also led to the breach of several dams. President Xi Jinping has also ordered all the authorities to organise flood relief forces.
As per The South China Morning Post, the incoming Typhoon In-Fa is responsible for the heavy rainfall. The typhoon, along with the air currents, has carried atmospheric water, concentrating at the Zhengzhou city, which is surrounded by the Taihang and Funiu mountains.
But this deluge is not new to China. The country sees severe water-logging every year. But, over the years, the impact has worsened with climate change and rapid urbanisation.
Moreover, Zhengzhou city lies on the banks of the Yellow River. This is the second longest river in China, which remains another reason why it is harder to control floods in this area.
