Recent extreme weather conditions in southern China have resulted in tragic consequences, with three individuals losing their lives due to typhoon-like winds that swept through the region. The severe winds, which began on Sunday, have caused significant damage and displacement in Jiangxi province.
According to reports from state broadcaster CCTV, a total of seven fatalities have been recorded in the province, with more than 5,400 houses damaged and 313,000 people affected. Approximately 1,600 individuals had to be evacuated to safety as a result of the destructive weather.
The Chinese meteorological authority issued an orange alert, the highest level on its warning system, marking the first such alert since 2013. The provincial capital Nanchang experienced the brunt of the extreme weather, with four deaths and numerous injuries reported following severe thunderstorms and heavy rains on Sunday.
Tragically, a woman in her 60s and her 11-year-old grandson were among the victims, pulled out of their apartment windows by powerful winds along with their mattresses. Another 60-year-old woman from the same building also perished after being swept out of a window by the extreme conditions.
Reports indicate that wind speeds reached levels equivalent to a Category I hurricane, with air conditioners being blown out of high-rise buildings and over 2,000 trees being uprooted in Nanchang. The impact of the weather event has been significant, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
China has faced a series of extreme weather events in recent years, with record-breaking temperatures and unprecedented weather patterns. Last year, the country experienced its hottest year on record, with scorching heat waves affecting various regions. Conversely, China also recorded its lowest-ever temperature in January, highlighting the diverse and extreme weather conditions that the country faces.
