China: Response operations ongoing following flash flooding downstream of the Sanmenxia Dam in Henan Province as of Jan. 23

Event

Response operations are ongoing following flash flooding along parts of the Yellow River downstream of the Sanmenxia Dam in Henan Province as of Jan. 23. Sudden river levels rises occurred Jan. 22 in the vicinity of the Sanmenxia Gorge located in the middle reaches of the Yellow River bordering northwestern Henan and southern Shanxi province. The site is a popular tourist location and dozens of people bathing in the river were swept away by the sudden surge. As of early Jan. 23, authorities have reported two fatalities and seven others are still missing. Two people rescued from the river have been taken to hospital. The cause of the rapid rise in river levels is unconfirmed and the Sanmenxia Water Conservancy Project Administration has denied that any major water release was conducted at the dam ahead of the incident. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Residual transport disruptions are likely in the area over the coming hours and days and response operations continue. Localized business disruptions may occur in flood-affected areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear following the conclusion of response operations. Allow additional travel time and seek alternative routes to circumvent the incident site. Comply with the directives of authorities.