Severe flooding in Beijing results in at least 30 fatalities as heavy rains persist.

Beijing is currently experiencing an unprecedented weather event, with forecasts predicting that Tuesday will witness up to 300mm (11.8 inches) of rainfall in certain areas. As the city grapples with severe rainfall and resulting flooding, reports indicate that at least 30 fatalities have occurred, primarily in the mountainous districts to the north, according to state media.

The state-run Xinhua News Agency has confirmed that the fatalities included 28 individuals in Miyun and two in the neighboring Yanqing district. This surge in rainfall, which began over the weekend, rapidly intensified, leading to an alarming rainfall accumulation of up to 543mm (21.3 inches) in specific northern districts of Beijing. As weather conditions continue to evolve, authorities are urging caution and preparedness among residents.

In response to this natural disaster, more than 80,000 residents have been relocated from the most impacted areas. The flooding has not only jeopardized lives but has also inflicted significant damage on infrastructure, impacting dozens of roads and disrupting power supplies to at least 136 villages.

Meteorological predictions suggest that the heaviest precipitation is expected early on Tuesday, prompting local officials to initiate preemptive measures. A state of alert has led to the decision to release water from a reservoir in the Miyun district, which is currently at its highest capacity since its construction in 1959. Residents along nearby rivers have been advised to exercise caution due to rising water levels compounded by the continuing rain.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has mobilized an “all-out” search and rescue operation in light of the situation, with authorities advising residents to remain indoors. Educational institutions have suspended classes, construction activities have been halted, and outdoor tourism has been temporarily banned until the emergency warning is lifted.

In the town of Taishitun, approximately 100km (60 miles) from central Beijing, streets are inundated with mud and debris, reflecting the intense impact of the deluge. Local residents are engaged in cleanup efforts as they navigate the aftermath of this rapid onset flood.

Earlier reports from Hebei province, located south of Beijing, indicated that the extreme weather has also resulted in several fatalities and missing persons due to a landslide, further underscoring the urgency of response efforts within affected regions.

This unfolding environmental situation highlights the resilience and determination of communities as they confront unprecedented weather challenges, with authorities actively mobilizing resources to protect lives and restore normalcy.

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