Beijing floods kill 30 as China sees summer of extreme weather

Beijing, July 29, 2025 — At least 30 people have lost their lives and more than 80,000 residents have been evacuated in northern China as relentless rains and floods wreak havoc across Beijing and surrounding provinces. Chinese authorities are calling it one of the worst flooding disasters in recent years.

Among the fatalities are eight people who died in a landslide in Chengde city, located northeast of Beijing. The capital’s suburban districts — particularly Miyun and Huairou — have borne the brunt of the torrential downpour, with roads washed away and homes destroyed.

The summer of 2025 is proving to be one of extreme weather for China. Just weeks ago, the eastern region was scorched by record-breaking heatwaves, while the southwest battled flash floods. Now, the northern regions face massive water surges, displacing tens of thousands and cutting power to over 130 villages.

Government Mobilizes Rescue and Recovery

In response to the disaster, President Xi Jinping has issued a directive calling for “all-out” rescue efforts and told local authorities to prepare for the worst-case scenarios. His statement emphasized urgency:

“No effort should be spared to search for and rescue those missing or trapped, to transfer and resettle residents in affected areas, and to reduce casualties to the greatest extent possible.”

The Chinese government has allocated 200 million yuan (approx. $28 million) to support recovery operations, which include repairing damaged transportation routes and restoring essential infrastructure.

Rescue Missions in Full Force

Dramatic footage shared across social media shows rescue teams wading through chest-deep floodwaters, using boats, helicopters, and drones to deliver aid and evacuate residents stranded in submerged homes.

With widespread destruction and more rainfall forecasted, emergency workers continue to battle time and nature in hopes of minimizing further loss.