**Beijing Floods Claim 30 Lives as Summer Storms Ravage Northern China**

The heavy rainfall has triggered evacuations and sparked urgent rescue efforts amid rising casualties.

At least 30 individuals have lost their lives in the recent floods in Beijing, prompting the evacuation of over 80,000 residents as relentless rains wreak havoc across northern China. Amid this crisis, eight more fatalities were reported due to a landslide in Chengde city, roughly three hours northeast of the capital.

This summer, China has been grappling with an unusual spate of extreme weather, experiencing severe heatwaves earlier in the month in the eastern regions, followed by substantial flooding throughout the southwest. In light of these disasters, President Xi Jinping has urged for "all-out" rescue operations, emphasizing preparedness for potential worst-case scenarios.

"We must spare no effort in the search and rescue of those who are missing or trapped, ensure the safe transfer of residents in affected zones, and minimize casualties as much as possible," President Xi instructed in a recent address. Authorities have allocated 200 million yuan (approximately $28 million) towards recovery initiatives, focusing on restoring vital infrastructure.

Areas adjacent to Beijing, particularly the suburban districts of Miyun and Huairou, have been severely impacted, with reports indicating damaged roads and disrupted power supplies affecting over 130 villages. Footage captured by emergency responders shows rescuers navigating chest-deep waters and using helicopters and drones to deliver crucial aid to those stranded.

One resident from Miyun district, Ms. Yang, expressed her concern for her family, who live in a remote village and have been out of contact due to the flooding. Her message on social media for urgent rescue highlights the desperation as residents face the daunting effects of rapid flooding.

Local residents recounted harrowing experiences as the floods surged unexpectedly. Shop-owner Zhuang Zhelin described the harsh reality: "The flood came rushing in, so fast and suddenly." Other residents echoed similar fears, waiting anxiously for help to arrive.

Historically, flooding in Beijing is not uncommon, especially during this time of year. One notable incident occurred in July 2012 when record rainfall resulted in 79 fatalities. Unfortunately, the current summer has also seen significant destruction across much of China. Earlier in the month, Typhoon Wipha claimed two lives in Shandong province while another landslide in Ya'an city took three lives less than two weeks prior.

Experts attribute the increasing severity of such extreme weather events to climate change, posing significant risks to both China's population and its economy, particularly the vital agricultural sector. The Ministry of Emergency Management reported that natural disasters in the first half of this year have led to damages amounting to 54.11 billion yuan ($7.5 billion), with flooding contributing to over 90% of the losses.