Typhoon Gaemi Devastates China: 30 Dead, 35 Missing After Record Rainfall

Beijing: Central China is reeling from the aftermath of Typhoon Gaemi, which has left at least 30 people dead and 35 missing, according to state media reports on Thursday. The severe weather, caused by the typhoon that previously battered the Philippines and Taiwan, struck eastern China a week ago, causing catastrophic flooding in Hunan province.

The city of Zixing has been particularly hard hit, with record rainfall reaching 645 millimetres (25 inches) in just one day. This deluge prompted the evacuation of over 11,000 residents as roads were submerged, and power and communication lines were disrupted.

On Thursday, state broadcaster CCTV reported that the most affected areas in Zixing, including eight towns, have begun to see improvements in road access, electricity, and communications. Despite these advancements, search and rescue operations continue.

Earlier reports indicated that four people had been killed and three were missing in Zixing, while Yongxing county in Hunan experienced three fatalities, and a landslide in the province claimed 15 lives.

As recovery efforts ramp up, authorities are working to address the extensive damage caused by the typhoon’s unprecedented rainfall.