Catastrophic floods in northwest China claim lives of 13 individuals
In the heart of northwest China, the Gansu Province is currently grappling with one of the worst recent flood disasters, as heavy rains since early August 2025 have triggered flash floods, mudslides, and landslides. The catastrophic events have resulted in significant casualties, missing persons, massive displacement, and critical infrastructure damage.
The floods began hitting Gansu province on Thursday, sweeping through mountainous areas and devastating entire communities. Over 4,000 residents in Yuzhong County found themselves stranded as roads were buried under silt and debris, isolating four villages. The disaster has wiped out homes, vehicles, and livelihoods, with several villages completely swept away in flash floods descending from Xinglong Mountain.
As of mid-August 2025, at least 13 people have lost their lives due to the floods and mudslides[4]. Approximately 30 to 33 individuals are reported missing, primarily in Yuzhong County, a hard-hit area in Lanzhou City, Gansu Province[1][3][4].
Infrastructure damage is extensive. 102 kilometers of roads have been damaged, five bridges destroyed, and road access to 14 villages blocked[1]. Power outages affect 37 villages, and 114 transmission stations are out of service[1].
Rescue and emergency operations are ongoing, with authorities relocating nearly 10,000 people to safer areas, clearing debris, restoring power and communications, and working through the night to assist stranded residents[1][2][4]. Flood control alerts remain active, with continuous heavy rains expected, posing a threat to further recovery efforts[2].
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the "utmost effort" in rescuing missing people[5]. State media reports indicate that hundreds of people have been rescued, and Beijing's top economic planner has allocated 100 million yuan (US$14 million) towards disaster relief in Gansu[6].
The situation in Gansu is complex, with mud and rough roads making rescue efforts challenging. Telephone lines and electricity are also cut, further complicating the situation[7]. Despite the difficulties, rescue officials are working tirelessly to locate the missing and provide aid to those affected.
As the floods and mudslides continue to wreak havoc, the people of Gansu Province and the Chinese government are united in their efforts to overcome this disaster and rebuild their communities.
- Amidst the ongoing flood disaster in Gansu Province, there have also been reports of accidents caused by the treacherous weather conditions.
- Aside from the general news about the floods, crime and justice authorities are investigating several incidents of theft and looting that have occurred in some of the affected areas.
