A landslide in China’s southwestern Sichuan province that buried more than 30 people on Saturday was caused by intense rainfall in the region, according to reports from state media on Sunday.
China has been experiencing extreme weather in recent months, with last year marking its warmest on record and numerous flood-related fatalities. Experts say climate change is contributing to the increased frequency of such events.
The landslide occurred around 11:50 am (0350 GMT) in Jinping village, located in the city of Yibin.
“A preliminary investigation indicates that the disaster was caused by the combination of recent heavy rainfall and geological conditions,” CCTV reported, citing local authorities.
The local county government confirmed on Sunday that 29 individuals remain missing, although two survivors were rescued on Saturday.
“The final tally of casualties is still being verified,” state broadcaster CCTV said.
Footage released by the broadcaster on Sunday showed rescue teams using flashlights as they searched through the rubble in the dark.
On Saturday, President Xi Jinping issued a directive for authorities to “do everything possible to search for and rescue the missing, minimise casualties, and properly manage the aftermath” of the disaster.
