The death toll from a highway collapse in southern China has reached 36, with rescue teams continuing efforts to clear the area of vehicles.
According to state news agency Xinhua, as of 5:30 am on May 2, 36 people had lost their lives, while 30 others sustained injuries, none of which were critical.
The collapse occurred early Wednesday morning on the S12 highway between Meizhou City and Dabu County, coinciding with China’s major May holidays, typically a peak period for travel. Aerial images revealed the collapse of a section of the road, measuring 17.9 meters (58.7 feet), with mud sliding down the steep, wooded hillside.
State broadcaster CCTV described the incident as a “natural geological disaster” exacerbated by heavy rainfall. So far, 23 cars have been discovered buried in the mud.
Witnesses reported hearing a significant explosion followed by the sound of vehicles plunging.
Approximately 500 emergency responders, including firefighters and mine rescue specialists, were deployed to the site. The highway was closed in both directions, with images showing a large crane removing damaged vehicles from the mud while excavators stood ready.
Rescuers, aided by dogs and life-detecting equipment, faced challenges due to shifting gravel and soil, as well as persistent rain, which posed risks to the workers.
