China Bridge Collapse Leaves 11 Dead, Dozens Missing Amid Torrential Rains
![China Bridge Collapse Leaves 11 Dead, Dozens Missing Amid Torrential Rains](/content/images/size/w1200/2024/07/0fa1a9d7-4013-463f-9d4e-48ebe9968d18.png)
A highway bridge in northwest China's Shaanxi Province partially collapsed on Friday evening, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 people and leaving over 30 individuals missing. The collapse occurred at approximately 8:40 p.m. in Zhashui County, Shangluo City, due to sudden downpours and flash floods. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities search for survivors and additional victims.
The incident caused five vehicles to plunge into the river below the bridge. By Saturday morning, rescue teams had recovered these vehicles and found all 11 victims inside. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for comprehensive rescue and relief efforts to locate the missing individuals and prevent further disasters. The collapse highlights the region's vulnerability to extreme weather events, which have become more frequent and intense due to climate change.