HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – More than 55,000 residents left areas at high risk across Hainan as heavy rainfall led to flooding and landslide concerns. Authorities expanded evacuation efforts through September 14, as rivers continued to rise and water threatened vulnerable communities. The operation targeted low-lying districts, zones near waterways, and locations prone to geological hazards. Emergency teams also provided temporary shelters and essential supplies for those unable to return home.
The intense weather system began on September 11, when a tropical depression over the China Sea interacted with cold air, resulting in heavy rain that spread across southern and central Hainan. Areas affected included Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Several communities reported flooded roads and disrupted access as rainfall intensified. Local authorities closely monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountain regions, while emergency crews evacuated residents from zones facing immediate danger.
Precipitation levels reached record highs before the weather system lost strength. Between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14, Xiangshui township in Baoting received 912.9 millimeters of rain. During the same period, six townships accumulated over 700 millimeters, with three exceeding 800 millimeters. The persistent rain increased the threat of flash floods and landslides across certain parts of the island.
Evacuation efforts expand in affected zones
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 individuals as conditions worsened, and the number rose above 55,000 by 6 p.m. on September 14. The Ministry of Emergency Management coordinated emergency responses across the impacted cities and counties, prioritizing residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other flood-prone or landslide-prone areas.
Floodwaters and landslides caused damage to roads and disrupted electricity and communication services in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams accessed affected communities where routes remained passable, while utility crews began restoring power and water services as rainfall diminished and floodwaters receded. Emergency workers also checked isolated villages and transportation routes, with local governments continuing damage assessments and relief efforts.
Recovery efforts commence as rainfall lessens
Following a decline in rainfall, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning on September 15. Officials declared that the extreme weather event had mostly subsided, enabling more communities to initiate recovery activities. Schools in some areas resumed classes where conditions allowed. Crews began clearing mud, reopening roads, and repairing infrastructure damages as residents gradually returned to safer zones.
The Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan during the emergency period. On September 14, provincial authorities also downgraded the island’s flood and typhoon emergency alert from Level II to Level III. Five working groups were dispatched to affected regions to assist local response efforts. Recovery operations continued in communities where roads were damaged, utilities disrupted, and the effects of several days of intense rainfall persisted.