HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – More than 55,000 individuals were relocated across China’s Hainan province following days of intense rainfall that caused flooding and other hazards. Local authorities carried out evacuations from high-risk zones by 6 p.m. on September 14, prioritizing low-lying areas, landslide-prone locations, and regions near rivers. In addition, officials arranged temporary shelters and provided essential supplies to those displaced.
The heavy rainfall that impacted Hainan began on September 11, triggered by a tropical depression in the South China Sea interacting with cold air currents. This system resulted in widespread heavy rains across the island, with the most significant precipitation recorded in southern and central parts. Communities in Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui faced substantial rainfall. As the rains persisted, rivers swelled and water levels rose in numerous neighborhoods.
The accumulated rainfall reached extraordinary levels in certain regions before conditions gradually eased. From September 11 until 2 p.m. on September 14, Xiangshui township in Baoting registered 912.9 millimeters of rain. Six townships experienced over 700 millimeters during this period, with three exceeding 800 millimeters. These figures highlight the intense concentration of rainfall across various parts of Hainan.
Evacuation efforts expand amid worsening weather conditions
As the situation worsened, authorities broadened evacuation efforts across affected districts. By 7:50 p.m. on September 13, a total of 31,564 people had been moved away from dangerous zones. The number rose to over 55,000 the following evening, as flooding and geological risks persisted. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office coordinated the emergency response and relief actions during this period.
Rescue teams worked tirelessly to restore access and vital services in communities impacted by floods and landslides. During the peak of the rainfall, roads, electrical grids, and communication networks were disrupted in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Emergency responders were dispatched to the affected areas, while utility crews carried out repairs when conditions permitted. Authorities continuously monitored reservoirs, rivers, and areas susceptible to flash floods to prevent further disasters.
From emergency management to recovery efforts in Hainan
By September 15, the intensity and coverage of rainfall had significantly decreased across Hainan, leading to the lifting of the province’s Level III heavy-rain warning. Officials announced that the extreme rainfall event had largely subsided, and affected regions had entered the recovery phase. Several cities and counties resumed normal classes as local conditions improved, and efforts began to clear mud, repair damaged infrastructure, and restore essential public services.
The Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response specifically for Hainan while relief operations continued. On September 14, provincial authorities also downgraded Hainan’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III. Five specialized working groups were dispatched to the affected areas to bolster local response efforts. Recovery activities persisted across communities as they worked through flood damages, utility disruptions, and transportation setbacks.