China searches for survivors of landslide in sub-zero temperatures

World

Chinese rescue teams have stepped up search efforts for dozens of people buried in a deadly landslide in southwestern Yunnan province.

Early Monday morning, while many people were asleep, two villages in mountainous Zhengxiong County were hit by landslides, burying 18 homes and at least 47 people.

According to state broadcaster CCTV, 20 people were confirmed dead more than 30 hours after the disaster. According to the report, 24 people remain missing.

Hundreds of rescue workers, including soldiers, were sent to the region, known for its steep mountains that are covered in snow in winter.

The two affected villages were built at the foot of the mountain, and more than 500 residents were evacuated after the disaster.

State media showed rescue workers climbing over concrete blocks and collapsed snow-covered roofs to find survivors.

Landslides, often caused by rain or unsafe construction, are not uncommon in China.

At least 70 people were killed in landslides last year, including more than 50 at open-pit mines in the Inner Mongolia region.