Flash Flood at Campsite in Northwestern China Kills 10, Injures 23

A sudden flash flood tore through a popular campsite in Gansu province in northwestern China on Sunday afternoon, killing at least 10 people and injuring 23 others after local authorities failed to evacuate tourists despite receiving advance weather warnings.

The disaster struck the Shuangshimen scenic area in Weiyuan county at 1:40 p.m. local time after heavy rainfall upstream triggered the flood. Torrents of water surged over the riverbanks within a narrow gorge, sweeping away tents, tables and numerous vehicles as panicked tourists scrambled up muddy slopes for safety. By the time the floodwaters receded, the riverbed was choked with rocks, debris and overturned cars.