Torrential rains have caused severe flooding in the southern Chinese city of Hengzhou, creating an unusual and alarming situation as hundreds of snakes have reportedly been released into flood-affected communities.
According to state media, around 900 snakes, many of them venomous, are on the loose after Typhoon Maysak swept through the region. The flooding has claimed 39 lives so far.
One woman died after being bitten by a snake—believed to have been a cobra that may have escaped from one of the area’s flooded snake farms. State media also reported that several other people have been bitten.
Videos shared by residents on social media show snakes swimming through flooded streets with their heads raised above the water, prompting growing concern among local communities.
Chinese authorities initially downplayed the threat but have since issued warnings urging residents to avoid the snakes. Officials have also deployed professional snake catchers, increased supplies of antivenom, and instructed hospitals to prepare for a possible rise in snakebite cases.
The flooding has also resulted in the escape of several zoo animals. Two zebras, a zebu bull, three miniature horses, two donkeys, and other animals reportedly escaped after a privately owned zoo in the region was inundated.
Guigang Zoo issued an emergency notice on Wednesday evening warning the public that some escaped animals—including ostriches, emus, and raccoons—could become aggressive if frightened and asked residents to report any sightings.
In an interview with local outlet Hongxing News, zoo owner Yin Feifei said staff members risked their lives to secure the enclosures of dangerous predators as floodwaters rose. Despite their efforts, three lions drowned.
“We could not allow predators to escape during the flooding and create an additional public safety risk,” the zoo owner said.
