Sudden Flood Engulfs Sichuan Town; Children Swept Away Amid Skepticism Over Official Cause

A sudden and unexpected flood surged through the streets of Shunhe Town in China's Sichuan province on July 20, catching residents completely off guard. The deluge occurred despite a lack of recent rainfall in the area, leaving many bewildered about the source of the water.

Disturbing videos circulating online show murky floodwaters rapidly filling the streets, carrying furniture and other household items. In a particularly harrowing scene, children were reportedly swept away by the powerful currents. Residents were seen desperately trying to salvage their possessions as the water rose, with some describing the depth reaching their calves and the current as swift.

While local authorities, including the Shunhe Town government and a nearby farm, attributed the flood to the collapse of a fishpond dam, this explanation has met with widespread skepticism online. Many internet users questioned the official narrative, with some suggesting that a nearby reservoir might have secretly discharged water. Accusations of "man-made disaster" and negligence, particularly regarding a lack of warning, have surfaced in online discussions, highlighting a deep distrust in official statements.