Highway Collapse in Southern China Claims 24 Lives

In a tragic incident early Wednesday, a section of a highway in southern China collapsed, resulting in the deaths of at least 24 people, state media reported. The collapse occurred in Meizhou city, Guangdong province, causing 18 vehicles to plummet down a slope.

The catastrophe happened around 2 a.m. local time, when a 58.7-foot section of the highway gave way. By Wednesday afternoon, the death toll had risen to 24, according to Xinhua, China’s official news agency.

Recent weeks have seen unprecedented rainfall and flooding in parts of Guangdong province, contributing to unstable ground conditions. Some areas of Meizhou experienced flooding earlier in April, with continued heavy rainfall over the past days.

Eyewitnesses recounted hearing a loud noise and seeing a large gap form in the highway moments after they passed the affected area. Local media visuals depicted a chaotic scene with smoke and fire, alongside severely damaged vehicles down the embankment.

Authorities have confirmed that rescue teams have transported 30 injured individuals to local hospitals for treatment. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the precise cause of the collapse as emergency services continue their efforts at the site.