Around 95,000 People Affected by Heavy Rainfall in Hunan, China

China – Around 95,000 people were affected by heavy rainfall and forced the evacuation of over 14,000 others in Hunan Province, Central China. This is according to local authorities on Sunday.

Heavy rains have hit several regions in Hunan since last Thursday, with Tujia and Miao Xiangxi Ethnic Autonomous Prefectures recording the heaviest rainfall, according to the provincial flood and drought control center.

In the two prefectures, direct economic losses are estimated at around 575 million yuan (US$1.2 trillion).

In Guzhang and Baojing counties, the hardest-hit areas under the prefectures, the weather has cleared and floodwaters have receded. Officials and locals were seen working together to restore transportation, power and communication networks.

"I heard the sound of drums beating at around six in the morning last Friday. I opened the door to find village officials beating drums and warning residents of flooding. In just 10 minutes, the floodwater rose from my doorstep to my knees," said one villager, Deng Zhongxiang, remembering his experience.

"I haven't seen a flood of this magnitude in decades,"

Heavy rains also triggered waterlogging in urban areas in Baojing county. The local government mobilized more than 3,000 party members and officials to help communities with drainage, dredging and disinfection.

At evacuation centers, food, water, tents and blankets have been provided to displaced residents.