Over the past few months, China has faced unprecedented climate impacts, including catastrophic flooding that has already killed hundreds. President Xi Jinping has called for “utmost effort” in rescue operations for those affected, particularly in Gansu province, where devastating flash floods and mudslides have claimed at least 10 lives and left 33 others missing. Gansu, among other provinces, has been battered by heavy rains. These have set off record flooding across China’s southern Guangdong province, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents.
As we head into the hottest summer on record, China is currently suffering from the largest number of disasters since the onset of climate change. Mr. Xi has directed all regions of the country to “resolutely overcome complacency” and enhance risk identification efforts to mitigate the impact of such disasters. This call to action underscores the nation’s fragility going into this stormy season. During heavy rains and flooding, conditions can become particularly treacherous.
Impact on Guangdong and Gansu Provinces
In Guangdong province, communities have been inundated, washing out residential neighborhoods and devastating local businesses. Catastrophic flooding from torrential downpours forced the evacuation of more than 60,000 residents. It is a decision that none of them made lightly, to have had to abandon their homes in pursuit of safety. The picture is still grim with local officials trying to deal with the fallout from the floods.
As in other recent disasters in Gansu province, flash floods caused by torrential rains that started August 7 have caused over 200 deaths. Mudslides have hit the area, causing a series of deaths that are just as heartbreaking. They have destroyed infrastructure and limited access to non-COVID healthcare services. Amid this crisis, President Xi has reportedly stressed the need for a focus on short-term rescue operations.
“utmost effort” – CCTV
The recent storms are part of an overall trend across China, where natural disasters have increasingly been in the spotlight. Last month, constant downpours inundated fields and homes in the suburbs surrounding Beijing, claiming 44 lives. This tragic disaster highlights the growing reach of extreme weather all over the country.
Government Response and Financial Aid
Beijing’s top economic planner has now stepped up to fill this breach. In response, they have budgeted 100 million yuan, approximately $21.3 million, for disaster relief in Gansu province. This funding will help with emergency response and relief to assist New Yorkers impacted by the catastrophic flooding.
China is doing its best to meet these challenges even as it tries to achieve ambitious environmental targets. The country aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Despite being the current world champion of greenhouse gas emissions, it intends to cement its status as a global leader in renewable energy. That dual focus on promoting economic growth while taking care of the environment continues to be an essential part of China’s long-term strategy.
Broader Implications of Extreme Weather
The increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events, exacerbated by climate change, threaten major sectors of China’s economy and endanger millions of its citizens. Natural disasters seem to be happening every day. This reality makes strong disaster preparedness and risk management strategies absolutely vital now more than ever. President Xi’s directives are a recognition of these challenges and the need for a unified national response.
