Tragedy struck in China’s southwestern Yunnan Province on Monday as a landslide buried dozens, claiming the lives of at least eight people. The incident unfolded around 6 a.m. local time in Zhenxiong County’s Liangshui Village, where 47 individuals were engulfed by the landslide, according to CGTN.
Rescue operations were promptly initiated, and state broadcaster CCTV reported that eight bodies were recovered from the debris by the dedicated rescue teams working in the affected area.
Southwestern China Hit by Landslide, 47 Buried as Rescue Efforts Unfold (Credits: Somoy TV)
In response to the emergency, a massive effort was launched, involving hundreds of rescuers, dozens of fire engines, and various other assets. By 10:30 a.m., over 500 people had been successfully evacuated from the area. The missing individuals were residents of 18 different homes.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has taken decisive action, issuing orders for an “all-out search and rescue” operation, as reported by Xinhua.
It’s worth noting that this tragic event occurred just over a month after a 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck northwestern Gansu Province on December 18, claiming the lives of at least 149 people.
This remains a developing story with ongoing efforts to rescue and provide assistance to those affected by the landslide.
