Severe flooding in Hengzhou has led to the escape of nearly 900 snakes from a commercial breeding farm, triggering panic among residents and prompting authorities to launch an emergency search operation. The escaped reptiles include venomous cobras and other snake species, raising concerns as floodwaters continue to affect villages across the region.

According to local authorities, around 800 to 900 snakes escaped after floodwaters damaged and washed away the breeding facility. The escaped reptiles reportedly include cobras, king rat snakes, water snakes, kraits and green pit vipers. While officials said most of the snakes are non-venomous, the presence of venomous species has increased fears among local residents.

The flooding was caused by days of heavy rainfall linked to Tropical Storm Mayasak, which resulted in overflowing reservoirs and the breach of the Liuan Reservoir embankment. Several nearby areas were inundated, forcing residents to evacuate. Videos circulating online showed snakes moving through muddy floodwaters, submerged roads and fields, while some villagers attempted to capture them using sticks and other makeshift tools.

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Authorities have deployed a 10-member emergency team to locate and capture the escaped snakes. Residents have been warned not to approach or attempt to catch the reptiles and have been advised to immediately report sightings to emergency services. Officials have also increased anti-venom supplies, established faster treatment procedures at hospitals and prepared medical teams to respond to possible snakebite cases.

The flood situation has caused significant damage across Guangxi, with more than 130,000 people reportedly evacuated from affected areas. At least 39 people have died in the region, with several others reported missing, according to reports. In Hengzhou and surrounding areas, more than 700 residents were moved from villages affected by rising floodwaters and infrastructure damage.

The disaster has also affected local wildlife facilities, with reports of more than 100 animals escaping or going missing from Guigang Zoo, including zebras, alpacas, ostriches, emus, raccoons and porcupines. Chinese authorities have intensified rescue operations and urged people to avoid flooded areas, remain alert and follow safety instructions as extreme weather continues to impact parts of the country. Snake farming is a legal commercial activity in some parts of China, where reptiles are bred for uses including traditional medicine, venom extraction, leather and food production, making flood-related escapes a recurring challenge during severe weather events.

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