Yongchuan: At least one person has been reported dead and 17 others are missing following severe rains that hit the Yongchuan district in southwest China, as per state media reports on Sunday.

According to Anadolu Agency, the region was struck by heavy downpours starting late Saturday, which persisted until midday Sunday. The villages of Guankouwan and Hanjiagou experienced extraordinary rainfall, recording 296.7 millimeters (11.6 inches) and 256.9 mm respectively.

Meteorological authorities have issued warnings due to the short interval between the current and previous heavy rains. The continuous precipitation is increasing the risk of geological disasters, such as landslides, collapses, and debris flows.

In response to the situation, authorities have implemented a Level-III emergency response for geological disasters in Yongchuan district. Relevant departments are actively conducting emergency rescue operations to locate the missing persons.