Rainstorms in China: seven dead, over 70 crocodiles on the loose

Beijing: Southern China is grappling with the aftermath of heavy rainstorms that have claimed the lives of at least seven people and prompted the escape of over 70 crocodiles from a farm.

In Maoming, a city located on the western coast of Guangdong province, reports emerged of dozens of crocodiles escaping from a farm due to the relentless downpours. Authorities have advised residents to stay at home as efforts are underway to capture the crocodiles.

Emergency officials have confirmed that a total of 69 adult crocodiles and six juveniles managed to escape. While some have been successfully recaptured, the operation is challenging due to the crocodiles' presence in a deep lake, according to Chinese media.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far in connection with the escaped crocodiles.

Moving further west, in the city of Yulin located in the Guangxi region, severe landslides caused by heavy rain over the weekend resulted in the tragic deaths of seven individuals, with three others reported missing. The official Xinhua News Agency reported these grim statistics late on Monday.

The persistent heavy rain has led to flash floods in Hong Kong, where two people lost their lives last week due to the flooding. On Monday, another bout of heavy rain once again inundated parts of the city, leading to the formation of puddles of water and debris.

In response to the ongoing flooding, Hong Kong's leader, John Lee, announced plans to establish an emergency assistance fund aimed at providing support to those affected by the floodwaters.