China's Billions in Weather Woes: Disasters' Toll Soars

Natural disasters cost China 93.16 billion yuan in the first half of this year, affecting nearly 33 million people. The disasters include floods, droughts, and extreme weather. The economic impact is the largest since 2019. Climate change is pointed as a contributing factor.

Natural disasters in China, including flooding and extreme weather, cost the nation 93.16 billion yuan ($12.83 billion) in the first half of this year, impacting nearly 33 million people, according to government reports released on Friday.

Significant disasters included heavy snow, 22 strong earthquakes, landslides, mudslides, and extensive flooding across various regions. The disasters resulted in 322 people either dead or missing, while approximately 856,000 people required emergency resettlement.

The economic loss marks the highest disaster-related hit since 2019, with climate change cited as a major factor in these unprecedented weather extremes. Preparations for the upcoming summer flood season are underway, stressing the importance of safety and disaster preparedness.

(With inputs from agencies.)