Move FM Global News

GUIZHOU, China – Rescue operations are continuing in the southern Chinese province of Guizhou, following massive landslides that left at least 36 people dead, and another fifteen still missing.

Diggers have been brought in to dig up the rubble in the faint hope of locating more survivors.

Forty people have been rescued so far.

Torrential rain caused the landslides last Tuesday in the village of Pingdi, Shuicheng County. Rescuers have been working overtime in the days since to locate survivors.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has extended his condolences to the families of those impacted by the tragedy,

In a statement released on Sunday, Mr. Guterres said he was “saddened by the loss of life and destruction of property caused by the landslides.”

Mr. Guterres went on to commend the search and rescue operations being conducted by the government of China, as the rains continue to fall, and offered the assistance of the United Nations, if needed, to assist in these efforts.

Xinhua is reporting the Chinese government has allocated 30 million yuan ($4.4 million USD) for rescue operations and accommodation for displaced victims.

Landslides are not uncommon in rural and mountainous parts of China, particularly after heavy rains. The country has experienced severe flooding this year.

(Photo credit: EPA | China feature).