Flooding in China Causes Panic as Snakes Escape Farm

On July 6, severe flooding triggered by torrential rain in Dengwei Village, Hengzhou City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, resulted in the destruction of a snake farm, leading to the escape of approximately 800 to 900 snakes. Local authorities confirmed that the floodwaters washed away the farm, causing heightened fear among residents as reports of snake bites emerged.

Wu Zhi, head of the Dengwei Village committee, noted that while many of the escaped snakes were non-venomous water snakes, the presence of venomous snakes, including cobras, increased anxiety in the community. Residents faced difficulties accessing urgent medical treatment due to flooded roads.

Local snake farmer Lei, whose farm was situated on higher ground and unaffected by the flood, estimated that smaller farms in low-lying areas experienced significant snake escapes. In response to the crisis, local emergency personnel and volunteers formed teams to capture the escaped snakes, emphasizing safety and advising residents to report any snake sightings.