HAIKOU, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – More than 55,000 people left high-risk areas across Hainan after extreme rainfall caused flooding and landslide threats. Authorities expanded evacuations through September 14 as rivers rose and water entered vulnerable communities. The operation covered low-lying districts, areas near waterways and locations exposed to geological hazards. Emergency teams also arranged temporary shelter and essential supplies for residents who could not return home.
The severe weather began on September 11 as a tropical depression over the South China Sea interacted with cold air. Heavy rain then spread across southern and central Hainan, affecting Baoting, Wuzhishan, Wanning, Qionghai and Lingshui. Several communities reported flooded roads and disrupted access as rainfall intensified. Local authorities monitored rivers, reservoirs and mountain areas while emergency crews moved people from locations facing immediate danger.
Rainfall reached unusually high levels before the weather system weakened. Xiangshui township in Baoting recorded 912.9 millimeters between September 11 and 2 p.m. on September 14. Six townships received more than 700 millimeters during the same period. Three of them recorded totals above 800 millimeters. The prolonged rain also raised the risk of flash floods and landslides across parts of the island.
Evacuation effort grows across affected areas
Authorities had evacuated 31,564 people by the evening of September 13 as conditions worsened. The number climbed above 55,000 by 6 p.m. the next day. The Hainan Provincial Disaster Prevention, Reduction and Relief Committee Office coordinated emergency measures across affected cities and counties. Officials focused on residents living near rivers, unstable slopes and other locations exposed to flooding or ground movement.
Flooding and landslides also damaged roads and interrupted electricity and communications in parts of Baoting and Wuzhishan. Rescue teams entered affected communities where access remained possible. Utility crews began restoring services as rainfall eased and floodwater started to recede. Emergency personnel also checked isolated settlements and transport routes while local governments continued damage assessments and relief work.
Recovery begins as heavy rain eases
Hainan lifted its Level III heavy-rain warning on September 15 after rainfall weakened across much of the province. Officials said the extreme rain episode had largely ended, allowing more communities to move into recovery. Some schools resumed classes where local conditions permitted. Workers cleared mud, reopened roads and repaired damaged infrastructure as residents began returning to areas judged safe.
The Ministry of Emergency Management activated a Level IV national natural disaster relief response for Hainan during the emergency. Provincial authorities also lowered the island’s flood and typhoon emergency response from Level II to Level III on September 14. Five working groups went to affected areas to support local operations. Recovery work continued in communities facing damaged roads, interrupted utilities and the effects of several days of intense rainfall.