China landslide kills 8, 34 missing; over 1,100 evacuated

A devastating landslide in Fengshui County, Chongqing, China, has resulted in the deaths of at least eight people, with 34 others still missing. The disaster, which occurred on the bank of the Wujiang River, also forced the evacuation of over 1,100 residents.

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The fallen rocks appeared larger than multi-story buildings. One vehicle was found half-buried near the collapsed buildings.

The landslide struck on the morning of June 17, sending a massive amount of rocks and soil cascading down the slope. Over ten houses were buried, and the sheer scale of the fallen debris was described as appearing larger than multi-story buildings. One vehicle was found partially submerged near the collapsed structures.

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The unstable weather conditions, with continuous rain in Fengshui County from last night to this morning, have made rescue operations difficult.

As of the afternoon of June 17, authorities reported that 18 people had been rescued from the site, but eight of them had died. Rescue operations have been hampered by unstable weather conditions, including continuous rain in the area since the night of June 17.

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We must scientifically organize rescue and salvage work, prevent secondary disasters, and properly handle the treatment of the injured and post-disaster work.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has directed that rescue and recovery efforts be scientifically organized. He emphasized the need to prevent secondary disasters, provide proper treatment for the injured, and handle post-disaster affairs effectively. Xi also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the landslide and a comprehensive review of potential geological hazards.

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We must investigate the cause and thoroughly investigate and eliminate potential risk factors such as geological disasters. All regions and relevant departments must better implement their responsibilities for safety work and strengthen monitoring.