At least 20 people have died and 27 have been reported missing in China’s capital city after it got hit by one of the worst storms in years.
Over 52,000 residents living close to Beijing‘s mountainous areas have reportedly been evacuated following the heavy rainfall brought on by Typhoon Doksuri.
The downpour has turned roads into rivers as numerous streets and homes got faced with severe flooding.
Both underground and overground rail services have been suspended, and over 52,000 individuals were evacuated to ensure their safety.
Two people were reportedly found dead in the river on the morning of 31st July during an area inspection.
The death toll has so far reached 20 victims while the heavy rains are expected to continue through 2nd August.
Footage filmed in the city’s Mentougou District shows countless vehicles submerged as floodwaters gushed into the streets.
One clip shows street signs being carried away by the water after they got torn off the ground by the violent storm.
District officials reminded citizens to avoid rivers and mountains and waterlogged roads.
The Beijing Meteorological Bureau issued a red warning of geological disaster meteorological risk.
The bureau warned that from noon of 31st July till noon of 2nd August there will be a high risk of severe flooding and landslides.
Schools were reportedly suspended, and air, sea and land traffic stopped due to the heavy downpour and strong winds.
Additional safety measures were also issued by authorities who warned citizens to stay indoors while the storm passed.
Typhoon Dusuri, the fifth of the year, which made landfall in eastern China on 28th July, is the strongest typhoon to hit China in over a decade.
