Storm Kills 10 in China as Tourist Boats Capsize

Storm Kills 10 in China as Tourist Boats Capsize

Beijing, May 5, 2025 — A powerful storm swept across southern China on Sunday, claiming at least 10 lives after fierce winds and torrential rains caused several tourist boats to capsize on a popular river in Guangxi province. 

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with dozens more still missing, as authorities scramble to respond to the disaster.

The incident occurred near the scenic city of Guilin, a well-known destination famous for its limestone karsts and river cruises along the Lijiang River. 

According to local officials, the storm struck with little warning, capsizing at least three boats carrying domestic tourists. 

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as vessels overturned and passengers were tossed into churning waters.

"Waves surged over the deck and the boat tilted sharply," said one survivor, a 34-year-old tourist from Chengdu. "People screamed and scrambled to grab life jackets. Some jumped into the water before the boat went under."

Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, but the intensity of the storm and limited visibility hindered rescue operations. 

As of Monday morning, 10 bodies had been recovered, and rescue teams are continuing to search for more than 20 others still unaccounted for. 

At least 15 passengers have been hospitalized, several in critical condition.

Chinese authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Preliminary reports suggest that weather warnings had been issued earlier in the day, but some tour operators may have failed to act accordingly.

"Tour companies must take responsibility for passenger safety, especially during unpredictable weather events," said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Emergency Management. "There will be accountability for any negligence found."

The tragedy comes amid China's annual May Day holiday, a peak travel period when millions of citizens flock to tourist hotspots across the country. 

Local governments in affected regions have since issued new warnings and suspended river cruises and other outdoor activities until weather conditions improve.

This incident underscores the growing threat posed by extreme weather in China, a country increasingly affected by climate-related disasters. 

In recent years, storms, floods, and heatwaves have become more frequent and severe, prompting calls for better early warning systems and stricter enforcement of safety protocols in the tourism sector.

As rescue operations continue, the nation mourns the loss of life and anxiously awaits news of those still missing.