What Caused the Death Toll in Mountain Torrents in North Western China’s Gansu to Rise to 13?
Synopsis
In Gansu Province, a tragic natural disaster has left 13 people dead and 30 missing due to devastating mountain torrents. This article delves into the impact of torrential rains, the ongoing rescue efforts, and personal accounts of those affected.
Key Takeaways
Mountain torrents in Yuzhong County have resulted in significant casualties.
Torrential rains triggered the disaster with extreme precipitation levels.
Efforts for search and rescue are ongoing.
Over 9,800 individuals have been relocated to safety.
Community members are receiving essential supplies at relocation centers.
Lanzhou, Aug 9 (NationPress) In a devastating incident, mountain torrents in Yuzhong County, located in northwest China’s Gansu Province, have tragically resulted in 13 fatalities and left 30 individuals unaccounted for as of noon on Saturday, according to provincial emergency officials.
The torrential downpours that triggered these mountain torrents began impacting Yuzhong, which falls under the jurisdiction of the provincial capital of Lanzhou, as well as other regions in Lanzhou, starting Thursday evening. By noon Friday, precipitation levels had soared to an astonishing 220.2 millimeters.
Efforts for search and rescue, along with infrastructure repairs, are currently in progress. By 6 pm Saturday, the provincial transport department reported that all roads leading to the afflicted villages in Yuzhong had been restored.
So far, a total of 9,828 individuals from Yuzhong have been successfully relocated to safe zones, as reported by Xinhua.
“Upon receiving the rainfall alert at 4 p.m. Thursday, our team swiftly conducted door-to-door notifications, urging residents to take necessary precautions and persuading campers in vulnerable regions to evacuate,” stated Zhang Kefu, the Party secretary of Yaogou Village, who has played a crucial role in the relocation of residents affected by the floods.
“In all my years, I’ve never encountered rain this intense. Stones as large as beds cascaded down from the riverway. I spent the entire night awake in my room, too frightened to shut my eyes,” shared Hao Xiuying, an 84-year-old resident, with Xinhua from her relocation hotel.
Fortunately, the mountain torrents spared Hao's home as it was situated on high ground, away from the riverway. However, the roads leading to her house were completely washed away.
At the relocation hotel, each room is equipped with a bathroom featuring a shower and fresh bedding. On the tables, residents found boxed meals, instant noodles, purified water, and other essentials.
“Now that we’re comfortably settled here, we no longer dread the mountain torrents and can finally sleep peacefully,” remarked Gao Cuixia, Hao’s daughter-in-law.
Point of View
It is imperative to cover the recent mountain torrents in Gansu with utmost accuracy and sensitivity. This incident underscores the vulnerability of communities to natural disasters and the critical need for timely emergency response and infrastructure resilience.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the mountain torrents in Gansu?
The mountain torrents were triggered by intense rainfall that began on Thursday evening, resulting in significant precipitation levels.
How many people have been affected by the mountain torrents?
As of Saturday, the disaster has resulted in 13 confirmed deaths and 30 individuals reported missing.
What are the current rescue efforts in place?
Search and rescue operations are ongoing, and over 9,800 residents have been relocated to safer areas.
How can residents prepare for such natural disasters?
It is crucial for residents to stay informed about weather alerts and to have an emergency plan in place.
What support is being provided to the displaced residents?
Displaced residents are being provided with accommodation, meals, and essential supplies at relocation centers.
