Hundreds of venomous snakes, including cobras and king ratsnakes, have escaped from breeding farms in southern China as severe storms and flooding hit the region. This incident occurred in Hengzhou, located in the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, following days of heavy rainfall caused by typhoon Maysak.
Local media reported that floodwaters overwhelmed a snake farm, prompting warnings for residents nearby. Dramatic footage shared by state media showed villagers using dip nets to capture snakes, with a cobra filmed emerging from the muddy waters. A snakebite victim, who was treated at a local hospital, recounted, “Hundreds of snakes escaped all at once. I’ve seen five or six.”
Impact of Flooding on Local Communities
The flooding has severely impacted several towns in Guangxi, leading to at least six fatalities and the evacuation of over 50,000 people. Reports indicate that two reservoirs experienced overtopping and breaches, leaving many villages surrounded by floodwaters. The death toll from the storms across China has risen to 38, with additional casualties reported from landslides and tornadoes in Gansu and Hubei provinces.
In response to the flooding, China's president, Xi Jinping, has called for “all-out” rescue efforts to assist those affected. The Hengzhou emergency management bureau acknowledged the reports of escaped snakes and the subsequent bites reported by villagers.
Emergency Response and Warnings
The Hengzhou Media Convergence Centre issued emergency guidance to prevent and treat snakebites, warning that snakes such as cobras, kraits, and green pit vipers could seek shelter in homes and buildings. Local authorities have increased supplies of anti-venom and established expedited treatment channels for snakebite victims at the Hengzhou People’s Hospital, the designated treatment center for such incidents.
- Emergency supplies of anti-venom have been increased.
- Medical specialists have been deployed to assist with treatment.
- Additional medical stations have been set up in affected areas.
Residents have been urged to exercise caution and avoid handling any snakes they encounter. Rescue personnel have been dispatched to assist with the situation as the region continues to deal with the aftermath of the extreme weather.
Rare Incident of Snake Escapes
While snake sightings in flood-affected areas are common, reports of hundreds of snakes escaping from commercial breeding farms are relatively rare. The recent incidents highlight the challenges posed by natural disasters and their impact on local wildlife, as well as the dangers that can arise for communities in flood-prone regions.
As the situation evolves, authorities are continuing to monitor the impact of the flooding and the potential risks associated with escaped snakes.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Guardian Environment. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
