Thousands evacuated as heavy rain swells rivers in central China

Thousands of people have been evacuated in central China's Henan Province after days of torrential rain swelled rivers and triggered a levee breach, local authorities said Thursday.

In Pingdingshan City, more than 2,000 people were relocated to safety after a levee along the Beiru River in Jiaxian County gave way on Wednesday night, following extreme rainfall and large-volume discharges from upstream reservoirs. No casualties have been reported so far.

The breach measured over 40 meters wide. Water levels were receding by Thursday morning, while repair work continued to close the gap.

In Luohe City, more than 4,500 people from 10 villages were evacuated amid rising concerns over potential river flooding.

From Monday afternoon to Wednesday afternoon, the city recorded an average rainfall of 270.1 millimeters, with a peak of 434.2 millimeters, prompting authorities to activate the highest-level flood control emergency response.

China's National Meteorological Center renewed a yellow alert for heavy rain on Thursday, forecasting downpours in several regions, including Henan and Hubei provinces.

xinhua