tourist boats capsized in Guizhou , A sudden storm in southwestern China’s Guizhou province has resulted in a devastating tragedy as , killing at least 10 people and injuring 70. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when the storm, which included heavy rain and hail, struck the Wu River near Qianxi City.
The storm hit unexpectedly, causing four boats to capsize. Two of these boats were carrying passengers, and over 80 people fell into the river, according to state media. Some passengers managed to swim to safety, while others were trapped in the rapidly rising waters. Witnesses described thick mist that greatly reduced visibility, making it difficult for passengers and rescuers to see what was happening.
Rescue operations were launched immediately, with over 500 emergency personnel dispatched to the scene. Videos shared by state media showed rescuers attempting CPR on victims, while one boat was seen upside down. By noon on Monday, rescue teams had found the missing person, though the individual was confirmed dead. In total, 10 fatalities have been confirmed, and several others were injured.
The boats involved in the accident were not overloaded, with each having a maximum capacity of 40 passengers. The incident took place during China’s busy May Day holiday, when tourist destinations saw a surge in visitors. The Wu River, popular for its scenic beauty, has been a favorite among domestic tourists, especially during the holiday season.
President Xi Jinping has called for urgent action in the rescue operations and expressed concern over the string of fatal incidents in the country. He stressed the need to improve safety measures at tourist attractions and large public venues. The tragedy has raised questions about the safety protocols in place for tourist activities in areas prone to sudden weather changes.
The incident, where tourist boats capsized in Guizhou, highlights the importance of better preparedness for such unexpected events, as authorities continue to search for survivors and investigate the cause of the storm.