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The death toll from a devastating China landslide that happened in Yunnan province has climbed to 25, with rescue operations facing significant challenges amid freezing temperatures and snowfall. The incident, which occurred in Zhenxiong County, has left dozens of people still missing, prompting tireless efforts from rescue teams.
According to reports from state-owned China Central Television (CCTV) on Tuesday, rescue workers toiled through the night, carefully sifting through deep mounds of earth at the landslide site. The harsh weather conditions, characterized by freezing temperatures and snow, have added complexity to the ongoing rescue mission.
One rescuer highlighted the formidable obstacles encountered during the operation, noting that the use of large machines was restricted due to the unstable nature of the soil. A report from local media outlet The Cover, owned by the Sichuan Daily Newspaper Press Group, quoted the rescuer explaining the challenges faced on the ground.
"If the excavation is unloaded below, the top may continue to collapse," the worker stated in the report. "It is difficult to carry out large-scale mechanical operations, and it is very difficult to rescue on-site."
The precarious conditions at the landslide site have necessitated a cautious and methodical approach to avoid further risks to both rescuers and potential survivors. The complexities of the terrain, exacerbated by the ongoing wintry weather, underscore the formidable task at hand for those involved in the rescue efforts.
As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on locating the missing individuals and ensuring the safety of rescue teams in the challenging environment. The rising death toll serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective response measures in the aftermath of natural disasters.
