Ridi Village, Sichuan Province — A devastating mudslide struck the mountainous Ridi Village in Kangding City, located in the Ganzi Zang Autonomous Prefecture of southwest China's Sichuan Province, on Saturday. The disaster, triggered by torrential rains, has claimed at least 10 lives, with 17 people still missing. 😔
The once serene village, nestled in a valley surrounded by towering peaks, now lies in the aftermath of nature's fury. Rescue teams are racing against time to find survivors amidst the rubble and mud. ⏱️
Professor Wang Yunsheng from the State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection at Chengdu University of Technology, who is actively participating in the rescue efforts, links the mudslide to shifting rainfall patterns. 🌧️
"The primary factors influencing the global climate have shifted from El Niño to La Niña, resulting in noticeable changes in weather patterns," explained Professor Wang. "In China, there has been a noticeable shift in heavy rainfall patterns towards the north and west. Areas that were previously drought-stricken are now experiencing increased rainfall." 🌍
This change has had significant impacts on regions like the Ganzi Zang Autonomous Prefecture. "This year, unprecedented heavy rains have occurred north of the Qinling Mountains. In Sichuan, heavy rains, which typically occurred in the basins, have now moved westward," Wang told CGTN.
The shift in weather patterns is a wake-up call about the broader impacts of climate change. 🌡️ Communities are now facing challenges they've never encountered before, and it's crucial to stay informed and prepared.
Our hearts go out to those affected by this tragedy. 💔 Stay tuned for more updates, and let's keep the spirit of solidarity alive. ✊
Reference(s):
Expert links SW China's deadly mudslide to shifting rainfall patterns
cgtn.com
