Heavy rains and flooding due to Typhoon Doksuri have resulted in the catastrophic collapse of a critical bridge in Northeast China, casting vehicles into the churning waters below.
The Unpredictable Power of Typhoon Doksuri
Typhoon Doksuri, the year’s fifth typhoon, has wreaked havoc across Northern China, causing considerable damage to homes and infrastructure. The force of its torrential rain and flooding prompted local authorities to urge civilians to evacuate and seek shelter in designated safe areas until the storm subsided. However, the relentless downpour on Thursday led to a calamitous incident – part of a bridge in Heilongjiang province crumbled, causing several vehicles to plummet into the river below.
When Infrastructure Fails: Harbin-Mudanjiang Bridge Collapse
The compromised bridge, part of a roadway connecting the cities of Harbin and Mudanjiang, collapsed amidst the torrential downpour, resulting in numerous vehicles falling into the river. The calamity occurred at approximately 8:50 a.m. local time, according to state media reports. The bridge spanned the Mayi River on the Harbin-Mudanjiang highway in Heilongjiang province.
While official figures regarding casualties are yet to be released, local media images depicted two severely damaged cars floating in the water.
The Far-Reaching Impact of Typhoon Doksuri
Typhoon Doksuri’s impact extends beyond Heilongjiang province, which continues to be on red alert for storms – the highest level in China’s four-color alert system. The storm has also significantly affected Hebei province and the administrative areas of Beijing and Tianjin cities.
Associated Press reports that China is currently experiencing floods triggered by heavy rains in various parts of the country due to Typhoon Doksuri.
Beijing Experiences Record-Breaking Rainfall
Meteorological authorities have reported that Beijing has seen its most severe rainfall in at least 140 years over the past few days due to the remnants of Typhoon Doksuri. The intense downpours have transformed streets into waterways, prompting emergency teams to utilize rubber boats to rescue stranded residents.
