Latest! Three Gorges Dam continues discharge on Yangtze River as China hit by massive flooding

Severe Rainfall and Flooding in Yangtze River Basin

Recently, numerous regions in China have been severely affected by heavy rainfall, leading to widespread flooding, particularly in the Yangtze River Basin. Multiple power stations, including the Three Gorges Dam, have been continuously releasing flood waters to manage rising water levels. The second flood of the Yangtze River in 2024 has caused significant flooding in Sichuan, Chongqing, and surrounding areas.

Increased Discharge at Three Gorges Dam

Since last Wednesday, the Three Gorges Dam has increased its flood discharge, greatly enhancing the volume of water released. According to the Chongqing Hydrological Monitoring Station, from July 13th to 14th, the western and northeastern parts of Chongqing experienced heavy to torrential rain, with some areas seeing extreme torrential rain.

Record-Breaking Rainfall

Dang County recorded over 254 millimeters of rainfall within nine hours, setting a new historical record. This intense rainfall caused severe flooding, submerging roads up to two meters and triggering landslides.

Rivers Exceeding Warning Levels

The heavy rain affected several small and medium-sized rivers in Chongqing, all of which exceeded warning levels. Among these, the Yuo River in Pou County and Mang River in Bish District surpassed safety levels on July 14. The Bayan River in Xiang Jin District, Yuo River in Pingu County, the Kingle River in Ron Chang District, and Mang River in Bishan District were still above warning levels, with the Mang River in Bishan District remaining above safety levels. Additionally, 35 small and medium-sized rivers, including the Chugang River in Tonen District, experienced water level rises of one to seven meters, although the highest levels did not surpass the warning marks.

Impact and Damage

Videos circulating online show the dramatic impact of the flood waters. Multiple upstream power stations have been releasing flood water, leading to surging river levels and severe flooding in Kaixian District, Dang Fu, Yunyang, and Chongqing, as well as neighboring Dejiang. The damage has been extensive, with villagers posting videos depicting their homes inundated with water and widespread disruptions, including power outages, water shortages, and lack of food supplies.

Peak Flood and Ongoing Efforts

The flood peak passed through downtown Dejiang, with water levels exceeding the warning level by nearly two meters, resulting in flooding of some riverside streets. In Chongqing, the ground floors of riverside shops were heavily flooded. Many villages and towns in Dejiang suffered from the floodwaters, with residents in Rure Town reporting a sudden and unprecedented flooding event described as the worst in decades.

Regional Impact

In Wano Village, Linkan Town, Lanii County, flooding began to appear, submerging some houses and trapping villagers. The continuous heavy rainfall has led to the formation of the first flood of 2024 in the Huai River. In Hubei Province, a landslide occurred on a highway section in Hufing, disrupting traffic and isolating some areas. Meanwhile, the heavy rainfall in Chongqing has significantly weakened, and with the rain belt moving north, this round of intense rainfall is expected to end soon. Over the next few days, Chongqing is forecasted to experience persistent high temperatures, necessitating precautions against heat. Residents are also advised to avoid mountainous and river valley areas prone to geological hazards due to the delayed impact of heavy rainfall.

Ongoing Vigilance and Response

Overall, the situation remains dire, with ongoing efforts to manage the floodwaters and mitigate damage. Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Emergency services are on high alert to respond to any further developments and provide assistance where needed. The full extent of the damage and the recovery process will become clearer in the coming days as the waters recede and assessments can be conducted.

Impact of Climate Change

Such extreme weather events are said to be made more likely due to fluctuations in temperature and humidity as a result of climate change.

Keywords

Yangtze River Basin
Three Gorges Dam
Flood discharge
Heavy rainfall
Torrential rain
Warning levels
Flood impact
Landslides
Climate change

FAQ

1. What is the main cause of the recent flooding in the Yangtze River Basin?

The recent flooding is primarily due to heavy rainfall in the region.

2. How has the Three Gorges Dam responded to the rising water levels?

The Three Gorges Dam has increased its flood discharge to manage the rising water levels.

3. What areas have been most affected by the flooding?

Sichuan, Chongqing, and nearby areas have been significantly affected by the flooding.

4. What records were set during this heavy rainfall event?

Dang County recorded over 254 millimeters of rainfall within nine hours, setting a new historical record.

5. Which rivers have exceeded warning levels due to the heavy rainfall?

Several rivers, including the Yuo River, Mang River, Bayan River, Kingle River, and Chugang River, have exceeded warning levels.

6. What are the immediate impacts of the flooding on local communities?

The flooding has caused extensive damage to homes, roads, and infrastructure, leading to power outages, water shortages, and food supply disruptions.

7. What advice has been given to residents in the affected areas?

Residents are advised to remain vigilant, take necessary precautions for safety, and avoid mountainous and river valley areas prone to geological hazards.