A bridge collapse caused by heavy rains in northern China has resulted in the deaths of 12 people and over 30 individuals are still missing, as reported by state media on Saturday.
Recent torrential showers have led to flooding and extensive damage in several parts of northern and central China.
The collapse of the bridge in the northwestern Shaanxi province was attributed to a sudden downpour and flash floods on Friday night, according to state news agency Xinhua.
All 12 victims in Shangluo city were found in five vehicles recovered from the river under the bridge, Xinhua mentioned.
Approximately 31 individuals are still unaccounted for, and initial investigations revealed that 17 cars and eight trucks had fallen into the river, the report added.
An eyewitness recounted how they were warned by other drivers to stop as a truck ahead of them plunged into the water, as per Meng, who was present at the scene.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for extensive rescue efforts to locate the missing individuals, Xinhua noted.
In the southwestern province of Sichuan, more than 30 people were reported missing after a severe thunderstorm led to flash floods in Ya’an town, as per state broadcaster CCTV.
– Extreme weather –
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