Torrential rains have brought devastating floods to Hengzhou, a southern Chinese city of some one million residents, and with them, a terrifying snake invasion. Around 900 snakes – many of them venomous – are on the loose after Typhoon Maysak swept through the region, causing flooding that has so far killed 39 people.

Snake Invasion

The snakes, which include cobras and common rat snakes, have been washed out of flooded reptile farms in the area. One woman died after being bitten by a snake, possibly a cobra, and several others have been bitten. Chinese authorities have issued warnings to villagers to stay clear of the snakes and are mobilizing snake catchers to capture the reptiles.

Snakes are not the only animals on the loose. Two zebras, one humpback ox, three miniature horses, and two donkeys – among others – also escaped when a zoo in the region flooded. 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.

Response Efforts

Local authorities are working to capture the snakes and other escaped animals. A team of snake catchers has been working continuously for two days, capturing a total of 2,000-3,000 snakes, mainly rat snakes. The local government has also issued guidelines to residents on how to avoid the snakes and what to do if they encounter one.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.