Severe Rainstorm Hits SW China's Sichuan

A severe rainstorm-triggered flood hits most parts of Sichuan Province in southwest China this month, has affected 3.4 million people in 15 cities, and 90 counties including Aba, Deyang, Chengdu, Ya’an, and Mianyang. At least 68 people were killed in the disaster and 179 were reported missing.

The rainstorm started to batter Sichuan on July 7, mainly focused on the quake-hit areas like Wenchuan, and Ya’an. The situation was aggravated by a landslide triggered by a rainstorm. Local transport and telecommunications facilities were also damaged to varying degrees. Government authorities have relocated people in case of geological disasters triggered by rain.

Tourism in Sichuan has been slightly impacted due to the rainstorm. Leshan City will be closing the city’s all scenic spots including Mt. Emei temporarily on July 17 and July 18. Hailuokou Scenic Spot in Ganzi Prefecture will be reopening after the heavy rain. The good news is, that Dujiangyan Irrigation Project, Jiuzhaigou Valley, Huanglong, Four Girls Mountain and some other scenic spots are still open as usual. And 14 giant pandas that are receiving wild training in Wolong are also in good condition.