HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – In Hainan, more than 55,000 individuals have been relocated from high-risk zones following intense rainfall that caused flooding and landslide dangers. The authorities broadened evacuation efforts through September 14 as water levels rose in rivers and inundated vulnerable communities. The operation targeted low-lying districts, areas near waterways, and locations prone to geological hazards. Emergency teams also set up temporary shelters and provided essential supplies for those unable to return home.
The severe weather system originated on September 11 as a tropical depression over the South China Sea, interacting with cold air. Heavy rainfall then spread across southern and central Hainan, impacting Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Several communities reported flooded roads and disrupted access as precipitation intensified. Local officials monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountainous areas while emergency teams evacuated residents from locations facing immediate threats.
Precipitation levels soared to unusually high amounts before the weather system began to weaken. Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14. Six townships received over 700 millimeters during the same period, with three recording totals above 800 millimeters. The extended period of rainfall also heightened the risk of flash floods and landslides across various parts of the island.
Evacuation efforts expand across impacted regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 people as conditions deteriorated further. The figure increased to over 55,000 by 6 p.m. the following day. The Ministry of Emergency Management coordinated emergency response efforts across affected cities and counties, prioritizing residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other flood- or ground movement-prone areas.
Floodwaters and landslides caused damage to roads and interrupted power and communication services in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams entered affected communities where access remained feasible, and utility crews began restoring electricity and communications as rainfall lessened and floodwaters started to recede. Emergency personnel also checked isolated settlements and transport routes, while local governments continued damage assessments and relief activities.
Recovery efforts commence as rainfall diminishes
On September 15, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning after widespread rainfall decreased across much of the province. Officials indicated that the extreme weather episode had largely subsided, enabling more communities to begin recovery. 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. Provincial authorities also downgraded the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups traveled to affected zones to support local operations. Recovery efforts persisted in communities with damaged roads, disrupted utilities, and the impacts of several days of heavy rainfall.