Key facts
- Hundreds of snakes, including cobras, escaped from flooded breeding farms in Hengzhou, China.
- Severe storms and heavy rainfall caused by typhoon Maysak led to widespread flooding.
- Local authorities have issued warnings to residents and increased anti-venom supplies.
- At least six people died in Guangxi due to flooding, with thousands evacuated.
- Reports indicate at least one snakebite victim has died.
Severe storms and flooding in southern China have led to the escape of hundreds of venomous snakes, including cobras, from breeding farms. The incident occurred in Hengzhou, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, after days of heavy rainfall associated with typhoon Maysak caused reservoirs to breach and inundate villages.
A dramatic video shared by state media depicted locals using dip nets to capture snakes amidst the floodwaters, with a cobra notably visible. Local media reported that escaped species included water snakes, king ratsnakes, and cobras. A snakebite victim told Beijing News that hundreds of snakes escaped at once and that he was bitten by a cobra while clearing debris in his home.
Local doctors have treated several villagers for snakebites since the typhoon. The flooding in Guangxi has resulted in at least six deaths, with 50,000 people evacuated and six still missing. Nationally, the death toll from storms has risen to 38, including 21 killed in a landslide in Gansu and 11 in thunderstorms and tornadoes in Hubei. Reports also indicate a snakebite victim has died.
China's leader, Xi Jinping, has called for extensive rescue efforts. The Hengzhou emergency management bureau acknowledged reports of damaged snake farms and snakebites. The Hengzhou Media Convergence Centre issued emergency guidance on snakebite prevention and treatment, warning that venomous snakes such as cobras, kraits, and green pit vipers had escaped. Authorities have increased anti-venom supplies and established rapid treatment channels at Hengzhou People's hospital.