Torrential rains have brought devastating floods to a Chinese city, resulting in a snake invasion. The city of Hengzhou, with a population of around one million residents, has been affected by the floods, which have so far killed 39 people.
Snake Invasion
Around 900 snakes, many of them venomous, are on the loose after Typhoon Maysak swept through the region, causing flooding. One woman died after being bitten by a snake, possibly a cobra, that escaped from one of the flooded reptile farms in the area.
Chinese authorities have issued warnings to villagers to stay clear of the snakes, and snake catchers have been mobilized to capture the reptiles. Antivenom stocks have also been boosted, and hospital workers are preparing for a potential influx of snakebite cases.
Other Animals Affected
The floods have also affected other animals, with two zebras, one humpback ox, three miniature horses, and two donkeys escaping from a zoo in the region. The privately owned Guigang Zoo has issued an emergency notice, warning members of the public that some of the escaped animals could get aggressive when frightened.
Over 16,000 pigs have also been washed away by the flood, according to Chinese local media. Heavy machinery was used to pick up pigs from the floodwater.
The city of Hengzhou is known for being China’s “jasmine capital,” where the fragrant flower has been grown for 500 years. The region is also a hub for breeding snakes, with over 100 snake species recorded in the area.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
