Chinese Army Blows Up Dam to Prevent Flooding Risks

The Chinese army was forced to blow up a dam in order to release floodwaters threatening one of the country's most densely populated provinces. The operation took place late Tuesday night in the city of Luoyang, in Henan province, central China. This drastic measure came after at least 12 people died in severe flooding in Zhengzhou, the provincial capital. Floodwaters trapped many in the subway system, and others were left stranded in schools, apartments, and offices. Transportation and daily life across the province were disrupted, as torrents from the rain turned streets into fast-flowing rivers, sweeping away vehicles and rising into people's homes. More than 100,000 individuals were evacuated to safety. Henan province is a major industrial and agricultural base and is home to many cultural sites. State media reported on Wednesday that the water levels were waist-high, with rainfall still ongoing. To the north of Zhengzhou, the famous Shaolin Temple, known for the martial arts prowess of its Buddhist monks, was also affected.