Heavy rainfall caused severe flooding in the Chinese capital Beijing and the surrounding area. According to state media, at least 38 people were killed, 28 of them in the particularly hard-hit suburb of Miyun alone. Another eight died in a landslide in Luanping County. Several dozen are still missing [1].
Rainfall reached up to 543 mm in parts of the capital. More than 80,000 people had to be evacuated, numerous roads were flooded, cars were washed away, power lines were damaged and at least 136 villages were without electricity. The situation is particularly dramatic at the Miyun Reservoir, whose water level reached its highest level since its construction in 1959. Authorities released water in a controlled manner and warned of further rises in water levels [2].
In the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the so-called “black rain alert” was also triggered for the first time this year – the highest warning level for heavy rain. Subway exits were closed and schools remained closed in the afternoon [1].
Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered comprehensive search and rescue measures to prevent further casualties. In addition, the central government has so far provided 200 million yuan (approximately 28 million US dollars) for emergency relief measures [3].
[1] Peking: Mindestens 38 Tote bei schweren Regenfällen | FAZ (accessed on 30.07.2025)
[2] China floods: more than 30 killed in Beijing and tens of thousands evacuated | China | The Guardian (accessed on 30.07.2025)
[3] China floods: 30 killed in Beijing after days of heavy rain – BBC News (accessed on 30.07.2025)
(Image Source: Pixabay)