A devastating landslide struck Jinping Village in Junlian County, Yibin City, southwest China’s Sichuan Province, on Saturday morning, burying at least 10 houses and leaving over 30 people missing. The disaster occurred at approximately 11:50 a.m., prompting an urgent response from local authorities.
Following the incident, around 200 people were safely evacuated as emergency teams mobilized to search for those trapped beneath the debris. A Level I geological disaster emergency response, the highest in China’s classification system, was activated at 3:30 p.m. in response to the severity of the situation.
Rescue operations began swiftly, with teams from fire, public security, transportation, medical, telecommunications, and power departments rushing to the scene. Specialized rescue units worked through the afternoon in an effort to locate survivors and clear debris. Two individuals were successfully rescued later in the day, though many more remain unaccounted for.
Authorities deployed heavy machinery and rescue dogs to assist in the search, while medical teams were on standby to provide immediate aid to any recovered victims.
Sichuan Province, known for its mountainous terrain, is highly susceptible to landslides, particularly during the rainy season. Recent heavy rains may have triggered the collapse, though officials have yet to confirm the exact cause.
With the risk of additional landslides, authorities have expanded evacuation efforts and warned nearby communities to remain alert. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate those displaced by the disaster.
As night fell, rescuers continued working under difficult conditions. Officials stated that every effort was being made to locate survivors and provide aid to affected families. The Chinese government has dispatched additional resources to support local teams, ensuring that relief efforts remain effective in the coming days.
The tragedy in Jinping Village highlights the ongoing risks posed by natural disasters in Sichuan and the importance of rapid emergency response. As rescue teams press forward, families of the missing remain hopeful for positive news.
More updates are expected as rescue efforts progress.
