Record-breaking rainfall leaves six dead or missing in Ordos, Inner Mongolia

Torrential rainfall struck Dongsheng District, Ordos City, in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on August 19, delivering record-breaking 214.7 mm (8.45 inches) within 12 hours — nearly the city’s annual average of about 300 mm (11.8 inches).

According to official reports, the rain overwhelmed urban drainage systems and triggered flooding in which three individuals lost their lives. Three others were reported missing in Dalad Banner. Search and rescue operations remain underway, with local emergency teams deployed to affected areas. At least one person has been rescued from floodwaters.

The disaster forms part of a broader pattern of extreme precipitation affecting northern China in August 2025. Earlier in the month, Urat Rear Banner in Inner Mongolia experienced a flash flood that killed eight people and left four missing. Across northern China, recent storms have caused at least 13 fatalities and displaced thousands of residents.

Local governments have initiated emergency responses, including road closures, community evacuations, and deployment of heavy machinery for flood relief.

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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