HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – Over 55,000 residents were evacuated in China’s Hainan province following days of intense rainfall that caused flooding and other hazards. Local authorities relocated inhabitants from high-risk zones by 6 p.m. on September 14. The evacuation efforts targeted low-lying areas, regions prone to landslides, and zones near rivers. Officials coordinated temporary shelter and essential supplies for those displaced.
The onset of heavy rain in Hainan occurred on September 11, driven by a tropical depression in the South China Sea interacting with cold air. This system brought widespread heavy downpours across the island, with the strongest rainfall concentrated in the southern and central regions. Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui were among the locations experiencing significant precipitation. As the rain persisted, rivers swelled and water levels rose in numerous communities.
Precipitation totals reached extraordinary levels in certain areas before weather conditions began to improve. From September 11 until 2 p.m. on September 14, Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters of rainfall. Six townships received over 700 millimeters in this period, with three surpassing 800 millimeters. These figures highlight the intense concentration of rainfall across parts of Hainan.
Evacuation efforts expand amid worsening rainfall
The number of evacuations surged as authorities extended precautionary measures to more districts affected by the storm. By 7:50 p.m. on September 13, officials had evacuated 31,564 individuals from dangerous areas. The total climbed to over 55,000 by the following evening as flooding and geological hazards persisted. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office oversaw the coordination of emergency response actions.
Rescue teams worked to restore access and vital services in communities impacted by floods and landslides. Disruptions to roads, power, and communications occurred in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan during the peak rainfall. Emergency crews were dispatched to affected locations, with utility workers conducting repairs where conditions allowed. Additionally, authorities closely monitored reservoirs, rivers, and areas vulnerable to flash floods.
Hainan transitions from emergency response to recovery operations
By September 15, the intensity and extent of rainfall had decreased considerably across Hainan, prompting officials to lift the Level III heavy-rain warning. The government announced that the extreme weather episode had largely subsided and that recovery efforts were underway. Some cities and counties resumed classes as conditions improved. Workers began clearing mud, repairing infrastructure, and restoring public utilities.
The Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan, with relief operations ongoing. On September 14, provincial authorities downgraded the flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III. Five working groups were deployed to affected areas to support local efforts. Recovery activities continue across communities facing flood damage, utility disruptions, and transportation issues.