Digital Desk, New Delhi. Eastern China is witnessing severe weather conditions as Cyclone Soudel continues to affect coastal and inland areas with heavy rainfall, flooding and the risk of landslides. Fujian and Zhejiang provinces have been among the worst-affected regions, with several low-lying areas experiencing sudden flooding after intense downpours.
Authorities have taken a series of precautionary measures as the weather situation deteriorated. Schools have been closed in affected areas, while ferry operations have also been suspended along several coastal routes. Residents in vulnerable locations have been advised to remain alert and avoid travelling through flood Three-storey building collapses during flash flood
One of the most alarming incidents was reported in Jianyou County, where a sudden flash flood caused a three-storey building to collapse within approximately 30 seconds. The incident highlights the destructive force of rapidly rising floodwaters following intense rainfall.
The continuous downpour had already increased the risk of flooding and landslides across the region. Local authorities have deployed emergency response and rescue teams to areas facing the greatest danger.
Officials are monitoring vulnerable locations closely as water levels continue to fluctuate. Residents have been urged to follow evacuation instructions and stay away from rivers, low-lying areas and locations vulnerable to landslides.
More than 2,500 people stranded at school
The situation also became critical in Wenzhou in Zhejiang province, where heavy rainfall caused sudden flooding in low-lying areas. More than 2,500 students, teachers and other school staff became stranded inside a school complex after floodwaters made it difficult to leave the premises.
Emergency supplies, including food and drinking water, were delivered to those trapped inside the school. Drones were used to help transport essential supplies while rescue and emergency teams continued monitoring the situation.
The incident created significant challenges for local authorities, particularly as rising water levels affected roads and movement across several parts of the area.
Vehicles submerged as flooding hits Fujian
Fuding city in Fujian province also experienced severe flooding following intense rainfall. Floodwaters spread across low-lying areas, leaving several vehicles partially or completely submerged. Mud, debris and floodwater covered roads and surrounding areas, disrupting normal life.
Authorities suspended regular work and educational activities in the city as a precautionary measure. Companies and institutions were also asked to remain closed in order to reduce movement and prevent people from entering dangerous areas.
The flooding has affected transportation and daily activities in several locations, while emergency teams remain prepared to respond to further incidents.
Nearly 247,700 people evacuated
Authorities have carried out a large-scale evacuation operation in response to the growing flood and landslide threat. Around *247,700 people have been moved to safer locations* from areas considered vulnerable to the cyclone and flooding.
Emergency teams have been deployed across affected regions, while officials are continuing to monitor rainfall, water levels and the condition of roads and other infrastructure.
Cyclone Soudel had earlier made two landfalls in Zhejiang before strengthening again over the South China Sea. It later made landfall in Zhangzhou in Fujian. The storm is expected to move westward towards Guangdong, bringing the possibility of continued heavy rainfall across parts of Fujian and Guangdong.
Growing concern over extreme weather in China
China has faced several episodes of severe weather in recent months, including sudden floods, intense rainfall and powerful storms. Flash floods can develop rapidly, particularly in low-lying and mountainous areas, leaving residents with limited time to evacuate.
Authorities in the affected provinces have increased emergency preparedness and issued warnings regarding flooding and landslides. Rescue and relief teams remain deployed in vulnerable areas, while residents are being advised to follow official instructions and avoid unnecessary travel.
The latest situation has once again highlighted the risks posed by extreme rainfall and sudden flooding, particularly in densely populated areas and regions with vulnerable infrastructure.
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