Horror as tourists drown in river after boats capsize - search operation underway

At least nine people have died after four tourist boats capsized in due to an extreme weather event. Another 70 were hospitalised after a rain and hail storm broke out along the Wu River in Qianxi City in Guizhou, southern China, on Sunday. Four people managed to make it to shore, but 83 people fell in the water, state media reported, and more than a dozen went missing. All but one have now been found.

More than 500 emergency personnel were sent to help with the rescue efforts in a coordinated response from police, firefighters, and medical personnel. Videos posted by state-run outlet CCTV showed fire engines and ambulances at the scene, while responders set up emergency stations.

The identities of those on the boats, described as a tourist activity, have not yet been revealed.

This comes during a peak tourism season for China during its week-long May Day holiday, marking an annual celebration of the labour movement.

Chinese President called for "all-out efforts" in the search and rescue missions. He noted other similar incidents from recent months and urged people to take strong safety measures.

Relief efforts at the scene are reportedly being led by Vice-Premier Zhang Guoqing, a top member of the Chinese Communist Party.

The busy tourist season has also sparked calls for authorities in the country to ramp up public health and safety measures, particularly as this is not the first incident of its kind.

President Xi's administration has made efforts to improve the safety of public transport, but accidents have continued to occur due to poorly maintained machines, overloading, and a lack of equipment. This is a particularly prominent issue during major holidays.

Just two months ago, 11 people were killed when a passenger boat hit an industrial vessel used to clean up oil spills in the Hunan province.