HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – Following intense rainfall that caused widespread flooding and landslide risks, over 55,000 individuals evacuated from high-risk zones across Hainan. As rivers surged and water encroached on vulnerable communities, authorities extended evacuation efforts through September 14. These operations targeted low-lying districts, regions near waterways, and areas prone to geological hazards. Emergency teams also organized temporary shelters and supplied essential items for residents unable to return home.
By September 11, the region experienced severe weather as a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacted with cold air, triggering heavy rainfall that spread across southern and central Hainan. Communities including Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui faced inundated roads and compromised access as the rain intensified. Local officials closely monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountainous areas while rescue teams evacuated residents from zones facing imminent danger.
Precipitation levels reached exceptional heights before the weather system weakened. In Baoting’s Xiangshui township, 912.9 millimeters of rain accumulated from September 11 until 2 p.m. on September 14. Six other townships reported rainfall exceeding 700 millimeters during the same period, with three surpassing 800 millimeters. The sustained rainfall increased the threat of flash floods and landslides throughout parts of the island.
Evacuations Accelerate in Affected Regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 people as conditions worsened. The tally rose to over 55,000 by 6 p.m. on September 14. The Ministry of Emergency Management coordinated emergency response efforts across affected cities and counties. Officials prioritized residents living near rivers, unstable slopes, and other flood-prone or ground-movement-sensitive locations.
In Baoting and Wuzhishan, flooding and landslides damaged roads and disrupted electricity and communication services. Rescue teams accessed affected communities where routes remained passable. Utility crews began restoring power and utilities as rainfall diminished and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel also inspected isolated settlements and transport routes while local governments carried out damage assessments and relief operations.
Recovery Efforts Underway as Rainfall Abates
On September 15, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning after rainfall decreased across much of the province. Authorities indicated that the extreme weather event had largely concluded, enabling more communities to begin recovery efforts. Schools resumed classes where conditions allowed, and workers cleared mud, reopened roads, and repaired infrastructure damaged during the storm. Residents started returning to areas deemed safe for habitation.
During the emergency, the Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan. Provincial officials also downgraded the island’s flood and typhoon emergency level from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were dispatched to affected zones to support local recovery efforts. Work continues on restoring roads, utilities, and addressing the impacts of several days of heavy rainfall in impacted communities.