Beijing is grappling with a tragic situation as the death toll has surged to 78 due to unprecedented rainfall in northern China. This deluge, caused by the typhoon Doxori, shattered a 140-year-old record on August 2nd. Regrettably, the rain continues to fall intermittently, compounding the challenges.
The torrential downpours triggered by Typhoon Doxori have led to devastating consequences. Low-lying regions have been submerged, and the force of the floodwaters has swept away everything in their path. Tragically, numerous individuals have been carried away by the floodwaters. The toll of lives lost has reached 78, with Hebei province alone accounting for 29 casualties. Additionally, 16 individuals remain unaccounted for as search and rescue efforts persist. Amid the relief operations, the recovery of bodies that have been submerged for days is a grim reality.
Reports from local media indicate that the floods have impacted approximately 4 million people in Hebei province. The destruction is evident in the annihilation of 40,900 homes. To aid affected residents, the Chinese government has allocated a substantial budget of one billion yuan for compensation. This fund will address the damages suffered by crops, livestock, poultry farms, residences, and agricultural machinery, as reported by the state news agency Xinhua.
The gravity of the situation is further exacerbated by the forecast from the China Meteorological Department. Predictions indicate that the country should brace for more rain, floods, and storms in the days ahead.