Hundreds of snakes have inundated the Chinese village of Hengzhou after heavy rainfall from a powerful typhoon flooded a local breeding farm, allowing the reptiles to escape into the murky floodwaters. Videos from the scene show snakes gliding through the water, with one cobra seen emerging from the depths.
In response to the snake infestation, authorities have increased antivenom supplies and advised residents on how to react if they encounter a snake. At least one villager has reportedly been bitten and is receiving medical treatment.
The snake incident occurred amidst widespread flooding in China caused by Tropical Storm Maysak, which brought record rainfall to the Guangxi region starting Saturday. The storm has been linked to at least 39 deaths across the country. Most of these fatalities, totaling 26, were in Hengzhou due to the partial collapse of a reservoir dam that unleashed torrents of water into the city.
Nine people remain missing in the broader Guangxi region. The storm caused rivers to breach reservoirs, stranding thousands of people in their homes and buildings for days. In Guigang city, rescue teams were working to extract over 10,000 students and teachers from flooded schools. The extreme weather also impacted the animal population, with a zoo in Guigang reporting over 100 missing animals, including zebras and tropical birds, while an animal shelter operator in Binyang county rescued approximately 200 cats and dozens of dogs.
Drones and thousands of boats have been deployed in a large-scale relief and rescue operation, with crews navigating strong currents and debris to reach stranded individuals. Approximately 130,000 people have been evacuated from affected areas. While floodwaters are reportedly receding, further rainfall is anticipated in some regions over the next two days. Crews are also working to clear mud, debris, and disinfect several towns in Hengzhou.