A sudden storm in southwestern China’s Guizhou province has capsized four boats, killing 10 people and injuring 70.

In a tragic incident in southwest China, four boats capsized due to a sudden storm in Guizhou province, leading to the death of ten individuals and injuries to seventy others. State media, including the broadcaster CCTV, reported that this disaster occurred on Sunday afternoon on the Wu River, a popular tourist destination, particularly during the May Day holiday, a peak travel period that attracts domestic tourists. Eyewitnesses described a rapid shift in weather characterized by rain and hail, which created thick mist and poor visibility, hindering rescue efforts. Rescue operations continued overnight, with around 500 emergency personnel deployed, including police and firefighters. After the storm, reports indicated that 84 people fell into the river, with some swimmers managing to escape to safety. However, one individual initially reported missing was later found deceased. President Xi Jinping has urged for 'all-out efforts' in the rescue operations and emphasized the necessity of improving safety measures at tourist sites, especially following a series of recent fatal incidents in China. Initial investigations suggested that the boats were not overloaded, each having a maximum capacity of around 40 passengers, indicating that overcrowding may not be a contributing factor in this incident. The rapid weather shift serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced in nature, especially in popular tourist locations. The Wu River is known for its scenic beauty but poses a risk when unpredictable weather occurs. The incident raises critical questions about adherence to safety protocols and the monitoring measures in place to safeguard tourists, particularly during high-traffic periods. Furthermore, as China experiences a surge in domestic travel after the pandemic, ensuring tourist safety remains a pressing concern. This incident also highlights the challenges faced by local authorities in managing crowds and emergency safety in popular tourist areas, particularly when sudden weather changes occur. The need for immediate investigations and potential regulatory changes in tourist vessel operations could arise as a result of this tragedy, aiming to prevent similar occurrences in the future.