HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – Following extreme rainfall that led to flooding and landslide threats, more than 55,000 individuals have been evacuated from high-risk zones across Hainan. Authorities expanded the scope of evacuations through September 14 as rising rivers and inundation affected vulnerable communities. The operation targeted low-lying districts, regions near waterways, and areas prone to geological hazards. Emergency teams also provided temporary shelter and essential supplies for residents unable to return home.
The adverse weather conditions began on September 11 when a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacted with cold air, triggering heavy rainfall across southern and central Hainan. Affected areas included Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Several communities reported flooded roads and disrupted access as the rainfall intensified. Local authorities closely monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountain regions, while emergency teams evacuated residents from zones facing immediate danger.
Precipitation levels reached extraordinary heights before the weather system began to weaken. Between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14, Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters of rain. Six townships received over 700 millimeters within the same timeframe, with three surpassing 800 millimeters. The sustained rainfall increased the risk of flash floods and landslides in various parts of the island.
Evacuation efforts intensify in impacted regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 people as conditions deteriorated. The total number of evacuees then rose beyond 55,000 by 6 p.m. on September 14. The Ministry of Emergency Management coordinated emergency response efforts across affected cities and counties, prioritizing residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other flood-prone or ground-movement areas.
Floodwaters and landslides caused damage to roads and disrupted electricity and communication networks in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams reached communities where access remained feasible, while utility crews began restoring power and communication services as rainfall eased and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel also inspected isolated settlements and transportation routes, with local governments continuing damage assessments and relief activities.
Recovery efforts underway as rainfall diminishes
Following the weakening of the storm, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning on September 15. Officials announced that the extreme rainfall episode had largely subsided, enabling more communities to begin recovery efforts. Some schools resumed classes where conditions allowed, and workers cleared mud, reopened roads, and repaired damaged infrastructure as residents started returning to areas deemed safe.
During the emergency, the Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan. Additionally, provincial authorities lowered the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response level from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were dispatched to affected zones to support local response efforts, while ongoing recovery activities focused on damaged roads, utility disruptions, and the impacts of several days of heavy rainfall.