A devastating tornado wreaked havoc in Guangzhou, China, claiming the lives of five individuals and causing extensive damage to numerous factory buildings. The destructive tornado hit the Baiyun district, injuring 33 people and lasting for about four minutes. Additionally, large hailstones fell in various parts of the city, adding to the chaos.
Videos circulating on Chinese official media depicted the sheer power of the tornado, with transmission towers ablaze and debris swirling in the air under a darkened sky. Guangzhou, a bustling city known for its manufacturing and technological advancements, has been grappling with heavy rainfall this month, leading to widespread flooding and evacuations.
The meteorological authorities in Guangdong Province classified the tornado as a level 3 out of 5, indicating wind speeds between 136 and 165 mph. Despite the conclusion of search and rescue operations, officials cautioned residents about the possibility of continued severe weather in the region.
The city of Guangzhou, situated along the Pearl River, has a history of flooding due to its low-lying terrain. Over the years, significant efforts have been made to enhance the city’s resilience to heavy rainstorms, including regulations mandating ground-floor shops in new apartment buildings to mitigate flood risks.
Janet Yellen, the U.S. treasury secretary, recently visited Guangzhou during her official trip to China, underscoring the city’s importance as a hub for trade and commerce. As Guangzhou braces for ongoing weather challenges, the community remains vigilant and prepared for any future natural disasters.
Contributions by Keith Bradsher and research by Amy Chang Chien
2024-04-28 02:11:26
Source from www.nytimes.com