Floods wreak havoc in China, leaving multiple dead and missing

By  News On Air   May 20, 2026

Heavy rain and floods have wreaked havoc in several parts of China, leaving at least 12 people dead and many missing. State media reports said the worst-hit areas include Hunan, Hubei and Guizhou provinces.

In central China’s Hunan province, five people were killed and 11 remain missing after torrential rain triggered flooding in Shimen County. Rescue operations are underway and over 19 thousand residents have been relocated to safer areas. Authorities said some places recorded rainfall levels that broke historical records.

In neighbouring Hubei province, flooded streets turned into rivers, forcing rescuers to use inflatable boats to evacuate stranded residents. Three people have died and four are missing there.

In southwestern Guizhou province, four people lost their lives while five others remain unaccounted for due to heavy rain and floods. Roads were damaged, houses submerged and communication links disrupted in several areas. More than 3,700 people have been shifted to relief shelters.