Tropical Storm Maysak kills 39 in southern China; zoo animals escape after flood
Flooding from Tropical Storm Maysak has killed 39 people in southern China, mostly from a dam breach in Nanning. Some 130,000 have been evacuated, and a rescue operation involving thousands is underway.
Tropical Storm Maysak has caused devastating floods in southern China's Guangxi region, killing 39 people. Vice Mayor Ding Wei of Nanning announced the updated death toll on Thursday, a sharp increase from the previous count of six, after record rainfall triggered a dam breach that submerged parts of the city. The breach claimed 26 lives.
Heavy rain battered the region for days, with cumulative rainfall reaching 10–40 cm (4–16 in) in some areas and exceeding 90 cm (35 in) in the hardest-hit locations, according to the national meteorological center. The floods prompted the evacuation of about 130,000 residents.
Rescue efforts involve more than 8,000 personnel and some 5,700 boats, navigating strong currents and debris to reach those trapped. Ding reported that floodwaters are receding but warned that more rain is expected in certain areas over the next two days.
Crews are working to clear mud and debris and disinfect affected towns, particularly in Hengzhou city, east of Nanning. Road repairs are ongoing, and electricity has been restored to over 60,000 homes.
In a separate incident, flooding damaged enclosures at Guigang Zoo, allowing at least 100 animals to escape, including alpacas, miniature pigs, and zebras. The zoo has asked the public to report sightings but warned people not to approach the animals, as some may be frightened or aggressive.
