HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – Following intense rainfall that led to flooding and the threat of landslides, more than 55,000 individuals had to be evacuated from high-risk zones across Hainan. Authorities extended the evacuation efforts through September 14 as rising river levels and water intrusion into vulnerable communities persisted. The operation targeted low-lying districts, regions adjacent to waterways, and areas susceptible to geological hazards. Emergency teams also arranged temporary shelters and supplied essential items for residents unable to return home.
The onset of severe weather occurred on September 11 when a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacted with cold air, resulting in heavy rainfall that spread across southern and central parts of Hainan, impacting Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. As the rain intensified, several communities experienced flooded roads and disrupted access. Local authorities closely monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountainous areas, while emergency crews evacuated people from locations facing imminent danger.
Precipitation levels soared to unusually high levels before the weather system weakened. Between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14, Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters. During the same period, six townships received more than 700 millimeters, with three exceeding 800 millimeters. The extended period of rain heightened the risk of flash floods and landslides across various parts of the island.
Expanded evacuation operations across impacted regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 individuals as conditions deteriorated, and this number increased to over 55,000 by 6 p.m. the following day. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office coordinated emergency responses across the affected cities and counties, prioritizing residents living 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 entered accessible affected communities, while utility crews began restoring power and communications as rainfall diminished and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel also conducted inspections of isolated settlements and transportation routes, with local governments continuing damage assessments and relief efforts.
Progress in recovery as rainfall subsides
On September 15, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning following a significant decrease in rainfall across much of the province. Officials indicated that the extreme weather episode had largely ended, enabling more communities to start recovery activities. Some schools resumed classes where local conditions allowed. Crews worked to clear mud, reopen roads, and repair infrastructure damaged during the storm, as residents gradually returned to areas deemed safe.
The Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan during the emergency. Additionally, provincial authorities lowered the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were dispatched to affected zones to bolster local response efforts. Recovery activities continued, focusing on areas with damaged roads, utility disruptions, and the ongoing effects of several days of heavy rainfall.