HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – Following intense rainfall that led to flooding and the threat of landslides, over 55,000 residents were evacuated from areas considered high-risk across Hainan. Authorities expanded their evacuation operations through September 14 as rising river levels and inundation affected vulnerable communities. The evacuation efforts targeted low-lying districts, regions near waterways, and zones susceptible to geological hazards. Emergency teams also arranged temporary shelters and distributed essential supplies to residents who could not return to their homes.
The adverse weather conditions started on September 11 when a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacted with cold air, resulting in heavy rains spreading across southern and central Hainan, impacting Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui. Several communities experienced flooded roads and disrupted access as rainfall intensified, prompting local authorities to monitor rivers, reservoirs, and mountainous areas while emergency personnel moved residents from immediate danger zones.
Before the weather system weakened, rainfall levels reached exceptional heights, with Xiangshui township in Baoting recording 912.9 millimeters between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14, and six other townships receiving more than 700 millimeters during the same period. Three of these reported totals exceeding 800 millimeters. The prolonged rainfall also heightened the risk of flash floods and landslides in various parts of the island.
Growing Evacuation Efforts in the Affected Regions
By the evening of September 13, authorities had evacuated 31,564 individuals as conditions worsened, with the number surpassing 55,000 by 6 p.m. on September 14. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office coordinated emergency response measures across the affected cities and counties, prioritizing residents living near rivers, unstable slopes, and other locations vulnerable to flooding or ground movement.
Flooding and landslides caused damage to roads and disrupted electricity and communication networks in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams entered affected communities where access was still possible, and utility crews began restoring services as rainfall decreased and floodwaters receded. Emergency personnel continued inspecting isolated settlements and transport routes while local governments carried out damage assessments and relief efforts.
Recovery Efforts Commence as Rainfall Subsides
Following a decline in rainfall, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning on September 15, signaling the end of the most severe weather across much of the province. Officials indicated that the extreme rain episode had largely subsided, enabling more communities to initiate recovery activities. Some schools resumed classes where conditions allowed, and workers focused on clearing mud, reopening roads, and repairing infrastructure, as residents began 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 downgraded the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were dispatched to affected areas to support local relief efforts, with recovery activities continuing in communities where roads were damaged, utilities interrupted, and the effects of days of heavy rainfall persisted.