China's 'Plum Rains' Unleash Chaos: Flash Floods and Landslides Ravage Northern Territories

China's north and west are on high alert, facing increased threats of flash floods and landslides as the annual 'Plum Rains' wreak havoc. The destructive weather has mobilized thousands of rescue workers in an effort to protect and pull citizens from the perilous floodwaters.

Red alerts have been issued as the rains pour across the nation, stretching from Sichuan in the southwest to Liaoning in the northeast. The relentless downpour has led to train suspensions and flight disruptions, particularly affecting Beijing, where officials are reacting to the dire meteorological conditions linked to climate change.

The economic impacts are staggering, with losses exceeding $10 billion last July. The 'Plum Rains' typically coincide with plum ripening along China's Yangtze River, peaking during the East Asia monsoon season, further threatening the region's agriculture and infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)