Southwest China Grapples with Landslide Aftermath as Rescuers Race Against Time.
A devastating landslide in southwestern China has claimed at least eight lives, with dozens more still missing in freezing winter temperatures, reports state media. The tragedy unfolded in the mountain village of Liangshui in Yunnan province, striking before dawn while residents were asleep.
CCTV reported that rescue teams have recovered the bodies of eight individuals, leaving 39 people still unaccounted for. A total of 47 individuals were initially missing as the landslide buried 18 homes, prompting the evacuation of over 500 people from the affected area.
Drone footage showcased the extent of the disaster, revealing a vast expanse of dark mud cascading down mountain terraces, covering village roofs blanketed in snow. The challenging conditions, compounded by heavy snowfall the night before, have made rescue operations complex.
Over 300 rescue workers, accompanied by numerous fire engines and earth-moving equipment, are engaged in the race against time to locate and save the missing individuals. CCTV aired footage of firefighters in orange jumpsuits navigating through the rubble of destroyed homes, their efforts set against the backdrop of snow-covered mountain ridges.
Despite the challenging terrain and freezing temperatures persisting below freezing, one survivor was rescued from the debris shortly after 11 a.m. local time, as reported by state-run news agency Xinhua.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged local officials to intensify rescue efforts, emphasizing the need for swift action. He also called on officials across China to remain vigilant and prevent major accidents as the Chinese New Year celebrations approach.
The remote mountains of Yunnan are known for their susceptibility to landslides due to steep slopes and unstable soil. As much of southern China experiences a cold snap, with temperatures dropping near or below freezing, the rescue teams are facing formidable challenges in their efforts to locate and rescue the remaining missing individuals.
