HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – In response to severe flooding and landslide threats caused by extreme rainfall, more than 55,000 residents have been evacuated from high-risk zones across Hainan. Authorities extended evacuation efforts through September 14 as rising rivers and water ingress threatened vulnerable communities. The operation targeted low-lying districts, regions near waterways, and areas susceptible to geological hazards. Emergency responders also arranged temporary shelters and essential supplies for those unable to return to their homes.
The adverse weather conditions began on September 11 when a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacted with cold air, triggering heavy rainfall. This led to widespread flooding across southern and central Hainan, impacting Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Several localities reported flooded roads and hindered access as rainfall intensified. Local officials monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountainous areas while emergency teams actively evacuated residents from zones facing imminent danger.
Rainfall levels reached record heights before the weather system weakened. Between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14, Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters of rain. Six other townships received over 700 millimeters during this period, with three surpassing 800 millimeters. The extended duration of heavy rain increased the risk of flash floods and landslides across various parts of the island.
Escalating evacuation operations across the impacted regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 individuals as the situation worsened, 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 among affected cities and counties. Efforts prioritized residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other areas prone to flooding or ground instability.
Flood damage disrupted transportation, damaged roads, and interrupted electricity and communication services in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams moved into affected communities where access remained open. Utility crews began restoring power and services as the rainfall diminished and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel also inspected isolated settlements and transportation routes, while local governments carried out damage assessments and relief activities.
Relief efforts commence as rainfall subsides
Following the weakening of the storm system, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning on September 15. Officials confirmed that the extreme rainfall event had largely concluded, enabling more communities to start recovery operations. Some schools resumed classes where conditions allowed. Crews cleared mud, reopened roads, and repaired infrastructure damaged during the storm, with residents gradually returning to safer areas.
The Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan during this period. Additionally, provincial authorities lowered the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response level from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were dispatched to affected regions to support local response efforts. Recovery work persisted in communities dealing with damaged roads, utility outages, and the aftermath of several days of heavy rainfall.