Beijing's Rain Trap: Extreme Weather Unveils Capital's Vulnerabilities

Extreme rainfall in Beijing has tragically claimed at least 30 lives as the region grapples with a year's worth of rain in mere days. The deluge has exposed the limitations of the city's disaster management systems, revealing critical vulnerabilities.

Reports from Xinhua indicate that the majority of the fatalities occurred in Beijing's northern mountainous districts, near the Great Wall, further complicating rescue efforts. The Chinese capital has faced unprecedented rainfall, markedly higher than its annual average.

Climate experts, including Xuebin Zhang of the PCIC, emphasize the role of local geography in amplifying the downpour. As Beijing and surrounding areas face unprecedented challenges, the call for enhanced disaster response has grown urgent, with officials citing significant damage to infrastructure and ongoing rescue operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)