HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – Over 55,000 individuals have been relocated from high-risk zones across Hainan as intense rainfall led to flooding and the threat of landslides. Authorities intensified evacuation efforts through September 14, as rising water levels inundated vulnerable communities and rivers overflowed. The evacuation zones included low-lying districts, areas adjacent to waterways, and regions susceptible to geological hazards. Emergency teams also provided temporary shelters and essential supplies to residents unable to return to their homes.
The adverse weather conditions started on September 11 when a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacted with cold air currents. Subsequently, heavy rain spread across southern and central parts of Hainan, impacting Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Flooded roads and disrupted access emerged in numerous communities as rainfall intensified. Monitoring efforts were carried out on rivers, reservoirs, and mountain zones, while emergency crews evacuated those in immediate danger.
Before the system diminished, rainfall levels reached record heights. In Baoting’s Xiangshui township, 912.9 millimeters of rain fell between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14. During the same timeframe, six townships received over 700 millimeters, with three exceeding 800 millimeters. This sustained rainfall increased the risk of flash floods and landslides in various areas across the island.
Growing Evacuation Operations in Affected Regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 residents as conditions worsened. The number increased to over 55,000 by 6 p.m. on September 14. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office coordinated emergency responses across the affected cities and counties. Special attention was given to residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other zones vulnerable to flooding or ground movement.
Flood damage in Baoting and Wuzhishan included road destruction and power outages, along with communication interruptions. Rescue teams entered communities where access remained feasible. Utility crews began restoring electricity and communication services as rainfall eased and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel also inspected isolated settlements and transport routes, while local governments continued damage assessments and relief efforts.
Relief Efforts Commence as Rainfall Subsides
Following a decline in rainfall, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning on September 15. Officials indicated that the extreme weather event was largely over, enabling more communities to focus on recovery activities. Some schools reopened where conditions allowed. Crews cleared mud, reopened roads, and repaired infrastructure damages as residents began returning to safe zones.
The Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national disaster relief response for Hainan during this period. Additionally, provincial authorities downgraded the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were dispatched to affected areas to support local operations. Recovery efforts persisted in communities with damaged roads, disrupted utilities, and the lasting impact of several days of heavy rainfall.