Rescue efforts continue as flood waters recede in Chinese Hebei Province

Rescuers continued to search for people still trapped in China’s northern Hebei Province, as waters began to recede from the flood-hit region. At least 147 deaths and disappearances have been recorded, as more than one million people have been evacuated from their homes following the storm. The storm struck Hebei and the neighbouring cities of Beijing and Tinjian, causing floods in the regions. According to a report by Chinese authorities, the floods washed away bridges and highways. It also brought about the heaviest rainfall ever experienced in 140 years, marking a significant test of the region’s capacity to handle extreme weather. Evacuated residents have been transferred to makeshift shelters in hotels and schools.