HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – In the wake of record rainfall leading to widespread flooding and landslide risks, more than 55,000 individuals have evacuated from high-risk zones across Hainan. Authorities expanded evacuation efforts through September 14 as rising river levels threatened communities. The operation targeted low-lying districts, areas adjacent to waterways, and locations prone to geological hazards. Emergency personnel also arranged temporary shelters and supplied essential resources to residents unable to return home.
The intense weather pattern began on September 11 when a tropical depression over the China Sea interacted with cold air, resulting in heavy rainfall that spread throughout southern and central Hainan. Regions such as Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai, and Lingshui experienced flooding, with several communities reporting flooded roads and disrupted access as rainfall intensified. Local authorities closely monitored rivers, reservoirs, and mountain regions, while emergency teams relocated residents from danger zones.
Precipitation levels soared to unusually high figures before the weather system weakened. 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 received over 700 millimeters, with three reporting totals exceeding 800 millimeters. Extended rainfall heightened the threat of flash floods and landslides across various parts of the island.
Growing evacuation efforts in affected zones
As conditions deteriorated, authorities had evacuated 31,564 individuals by the evening of September 13. The figure increased to over 55,000 by 6 p.m. the following day. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office coordinated emergency responses across impacted cities and counties, prioritizing residents near rivers, unstable slopes, and other flood- or landslide-prone areas.
Floodwaters and landslides caused damage to roads and interrupted power and communication services in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams entered communities where access remained viable, and utility crews began restoring services as rainfall eased and floodwaters receded. Emergency workers also checked isolated settlements and transportation routes, while local governments continued damage assessments and relief efforts.
Recovery efforts commence amid easing rainfall
On September 15, Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning after rainfall subsided across much of the region. Officials indicated that the extreme weather event had largely concluded, enabling more communities to begin recovery processes. Some schools resumed classes where conditions allowed, and workers started clearing mud, reopening roads, and repairing infrastructure damaged during the storm. Residents have begun returning to areas deemed safe.
During the emergency, Ministry of Emergency Management declared a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan. Additionally, provincial authorities lowered the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response level from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups were dispatched to affected zones to support local recovery efforts. Ongoing work includes restoring damaged roads, utilities, and addressing the consequences of several days of heavy rainfall.