HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – More than 55,000 residents in Hainan have evacuated from areas deemed high-risk as intense rainfall led to flooding and landslide threats. Authorities expanded the scope of evacuations through September 14, as rising rivers and infiltrating water endangered vulnerable communities. The evacuation efforts targeted low-lying zones, regions near waterways, and locations prone to geological hazards. Emergency teams also arranged temporary shelters and essential supplies for those unable to return home.
The adverse weather conditions started on September 11, caused by a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacting with cold air. As a result, heavy rainfall spread across southern and central Hainan, impacting Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Several communities reported flooded roads and disrupted access as rainfall intensified. Local officials monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountain areas, while rescue teams moved residents from locations facing immediate danger.
Precipitation levels became unusually high before the weather system weakened. Between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14, Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters of rainfall. Six townships received over 700 millimeters during this period, with three exceeding 800 millimeters. The extended rainfall increased the risk of flash floods and landslides across parts of the island.
Growing Evacuation Operations Across the Affected Regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 individuals as conditions worsened. The number of evacuees increased to over 55,000 by 6 p.m. the following day. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office coordinated emergency response efforts throughout the impacted cities and counties. Officials prioritized residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other areas susceptible to flooding or ground movement.
Floodwaters and landslides damaged roads and disrupted electricity and communication services in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams accessed affected communities where roads remained passable. Utility crews began restoring power and communication services as rainfall lessened and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel also checked isolated settlements and transportation routes, while local governments carried out damage assessments and relief operations.
Early Recovery Efforts as Rainfall Subsides
On September 15, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning after rainfall decreased across much of the province. Officials announced that the extreme weather episode had largely concluded, enabling more communities to start recovery efforts. Some schools resumed classes where conditions allowed. Workers cleared mud, reopened roads, and repaired infrastructure damaged during the storm as residents began returning to areas deemed safe.
The Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response plan for Hainan during this emergency. Provincial authorities also downgraded the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five workgroups were dispatched to affected regions to support local recovery activities. Efforts to repair damaged roads, restore utilities, and address the impacts of several days of intense rainfall are ongoing in affected communities.