A devastating landslide struck Zhenxiong County in China’s Yunnan province, burying 47 people in the early hours of Monday, according to state media. The incident occurred at 5:51 am local time, affecting around 18 households. Over 200 individuals were swiftly evacuated from the area as an emergency response was initiated, deploying more than 200 rescue workers, numerous fire engines, and additional equipment.
State news agency Xinhua reported the tragic event, while CCTV shared footage on social media depicting the aftermath. Emergency personnel, clad in orange jumpsuits and helmets, were seen forming lines outside a fire station amidst snowflakes. The heartbreaking scenes included rescuers sifting through piles of debris, revealing glimpses of personal belongings among the wreckage.
Despite the ongoing rescue efforts, authorities refrained from confirming casualties at the time of reporting. However, CCTV aired an image purporting to show a firefighter diligently extracting a trapped villager from a residence impacted by the landslide.
The gravity of the situation prompted a swift and comprehensive emergency response, underscoring the urgency of the rescue operation. The local village head, contacted by phone, declined to comment, citing an overwhelming workload.
As the incident unfolds, the community grapples with the uncertainty of the landslide’s toll. The images and reports convey the challenges faced by rescue teams battling adverse weather conditions and treacherous terrain. The widespread evacuation reflects a proactive effort to safeguard lives amid the unfolding tragedy.
The resilience of the rescue workers and the collaborative response from various agencies highlight the collective determination to mitigate the impact of the landslide. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable forces of nature and the vital role emergency preparedness plays in responding to such disasters.
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