HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – More than 55,000 individuals have been displaced from high-risk zones across Hainan due to severe rainfall that triggered flooding and the threat of landslides. Authorities ramped up evacuation efforts through September 14 as rising river levels and water intrusion into vulnerable communities persisted. The operation targeted low-lying districts, regions near waterways, and zones susceptible to geological hazards. Emergency teams also arranged temporary shelters and provided essential supplies for residents unable to return home.
The intense weather pattern originated on September 11 when a tropical depression over the China Sea interacted with cold air, leading to heavy rain that spread across southern and central parts of Hainan. The affected areas included Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Several communities reported flooded roads and disrupted access as the rainfall intensified. Local authorities kept close watch on rivers, reservoirs, and mountain regions, while emergency crews evacuated people from locations facing immediate risks.
Precipitation levels reached record highs before the weather system began to weaken. Between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14, Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters of rain. During the same period, six townships experienced more than 700 millimeters of rainfall, with three surpassing 800 millimeters. This prolonged rainfall heightened the danger of flash floods and landslides across various parts of the island.
Growing evacuation efforts in affected regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 residents as conditions worsened, and the number increased to over 55,000 by 6 p.m. the following day. The Ministry of Emergency Management coordinated emergency responses across affected cities and counties through the Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office. Focus was primarily on residents living near rivers, unstable slopes, and other areas prone to flooding or ground movement.
Floodwaters and landslides caused damage to roads and interrupted power and communication services in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams accessed affected communities where access remained feasible. Utility crews began restoring utilities as rainfall decreased and floodwaters receded. Emergency responders also inspected isolated settlements and transportation routes, while local governments carried out damage assessments and relief efforts.
Recovery efforts underway as rainfall diminishes
On September 15, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning after a significant decrease in rainfall across much of the province. Officials indicated that the extreme weather event had largely subsided, enabling more communities to begin recovery activities. Some schools reopened where conditions allowed. Cleanup operations included clearing mud, reopening roads, and repairing infrastructure, as residents started returning to areas deemed safe.
During the emergency, the Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan. Additionally, provincial authorities lowered the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were deployed to affected areas to support local recovery efforts. Ongoing work focused on restoring damaged roads, utilities, and addressing the aftermath of several days of heavy rainfall.