A tragic landslide in Central China’s Hunan Province has claimed the lives of 12 people, with six others injured as of Sunday noon. The disaster, which occurred in Nanyue district of Hengyang, was triggered by a flash flood early on Sunday morning, leading to the collapse of a one-story inn.

Rescue operations are actively underway, with local officials and emergency services working tirelessly at the scene. The Central Meteorological Observatory (CMO) has issued an orange alert for rainstorms, with further heavy rainfall expected in the region from Sunday to Monday.

Eyewitnesses reported that the landslide occurred following a night of intense downpour. A local villager, identified only by the surname Li, described the scene, stating that the landslide swept down the mountain behind the inn, devastating the kitchen and dining room. At the time, employees and guests were inside the dining room for breakfast.

As of the latest reports, 18 people have been recovered from the site, including the 12 deceased and six injured, who have been transferred to a nearby hospital for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not yet been disclosed.

In response to the disaster, the Nanyue emergency management department has mobilized all available officials and personnel to assist with relief efforts. Chen, an official from the department, stated that they are prioritizing the evacuation of communities at risk of further landslides or flooding, especially in light of the forecasted severe weather.

An official from the Hengyang emergency services authority assured that essential supplies are currently sufficient, and relief distribution will continue as needed based on the situation on the ground. Over 240 disaster relief personnel have been deployed to carry out rescue operations, which are still in progress.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather in the region, with authorities urging residents to stay alert and take necessary precautions.