Severe Floods Threaten Southern China

Guangdong Province on Red Alert for "Floods of the Century"

Southern China, particularly Guangdong province, is currently facing torrential rains that have prompted the highest level of weather alert. Since Thursday, the region has been battered by heavy rainfall, causing rivers to swell and putting the area at risk of severe flooding. Authorities issued a red alert on Tuesday, with the alert coming into effect at 11:00 a.m. local time in Shenzhen, a major city near Hong Kong.

Casualties and Economic Impact

The relentless downpour has already resulted in tragic losses, with at least four people reported dead and around ten missing. Approximately 110,000 residents have been forced to evacuate their homes due to the imminent threat of flash floods. The economic toll is also significant, as Guangdong is a crucial hub for China’s economy, particularly in manufacturing sectors like computer chips, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. The region contributes to a tenth of the country’s GDP and has been the top economic performer for 35 consecutive years.

Transportation and Infrastructure Disruption

The floods have caused substantial disruptions, with many train services halted due to the overflowing rivers and landslides. Several cities, including Jiangwan City, find themselves isolated, severely impacting daily life and economic activities.

Climate Change and Increasing Weather Extremes

This early onset of heavy rainfall, typically expected in summer, is part of a broader pattern of extreme weather conditions that China has been experiencing. Scientists attribute these changes to climate change, driven by human-emitted greenhouse gases, which are making extreme weather events both more frequent and more intense.