In brief
Central China’s Hubei province was rattled by a rare tornado that caused 11 deaths and shattered buildings. Videos from nearby cities show debris and flashing lights swirling in the night. The disaster marks the first tornado in the region in years, prompting nationwide emergency drills. Authorities are working on rescue operations and raising awareness about storm preparedness.
By BBC News
At least 11 people have died after severe thunderstorms swept cities in central China’s Hubei province, the state media reported. The storm’s wind speed and swirling debris made it one of the most destructive tornadoes in the region’s recent history.
Video clips posted from nearby Ezhou and Huanggang show glass flying through the air, shattering windows and sending people scrambling for cover. One student from Huanggang described the moment as “just an ordinary thunderstorm” until suddenly something started flying into the dormitory.
The tornado is believed to be the first of its kind in Hubei since a 2021 event, according to state media. Local authorities are now rescuing survivors, providing medical aid, and raising alerts for future storms.
Emergency teams say thousands of buildings were damaged and over 300 residents were injured. The incident has sparked a national conversation on disaster readiness and climate resilience.
Stay tuned to SnapScope’s interactive map for real-time updates and science-backed explanations of how tornadoes form.
