Deadly Flash Flood Strikes Northwest China Tourist Destination, 10 Dead And 23 Hospitalised

A flash flood triggered by heavy rainfall at a tourist destination in northwest China has killed 10 people and injured 23 others, according to state media reports. The incident occurred on Sunday at the Shuangshimen Scenic Area in Weiyuan County, Dingxi City, in Gansu Province, where a sudden mountain torrent trapped several campers visiting the popular summer destination. According to state broadcaster CCTV, the flash flood was caused by short-term heavy rainfall that triggered a mountain torrent in the scenic area.

Several visitors camping at the location were caught in the sudden flooding, leading to casualties. Rescue teams were immediately deployed, and 174 people were successfully evacuated from the affected area. The injured victims were taken to nearby hospitals for medical treatment, officials said. Authorities have continued rescue and relief operations while assessing the extent of the damage caused by the sudden flooding. Further details about the identities of the victims and the condition of those injured were not immediately available.

The Shuangshimen Scenic Area is located in the mountainous region of southern Gansu and is known for its natural landscapes, including stone arches, alpine meadows and mountain streams. The area attracts tourists during the summer months, particularly campers looking to experience its scenic surroundings. The incident highlights the risks associated with sudden weather changes in mountainous tourist regions. Flash floods can occur rapidly when intense rainfall causes water levels in streams and valleys to rise quickly, leaving little time for people in affected areas to move to safety.

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Authorities often advise visitors in such regions to monitor weather alerts and avoid camping near rivers or low-lying areas during periods of heavy rain. The flash flood in Gansu occurred as several parts of China remained on alert due to extreme weather conditions. Large areas of southern China were preparing for possible flooding after Typhoon Noul made landfall earlier on Sunday. The storm, described as the 12th and strongest typhoon to hit China this year, brought strong winds and heavy rainfall to several regions.

Typhoon Noul made landfall near Huizhou city in Guangdong Province at around 3:50 am, bringing winds of up to 162 kilometres per hour and widespread rainfall. The storm disrupted transportation services, with high-speed rail operations and flights across Guangdong being cancelled as authorities took precautionary measures. Although Gansu Province was far from the direct path of Typhoon Noul, parts of the region experienced heavy rainfall that prompted local authorities to issue weather warnings.

Emergency response measures were activated in several provinces, including Fujian, Jiangxi, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Guangdong and Guangxi, covering large parts of eastern, central and southern China. Officials have urged residents and tourists to remain cautious during periods of extreme weather, particularly in mountainous and flood-prone areas. The Gansu tragedy has renewed attention on the importance of early warnings, emergency preparedness and safety measures at popular outdoor tourist locations. Rescue operations and investigations into the incident are expected to continue as authorities work to determine the full impact of the flash flood.

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