China Floods: Viral Video Of Hundreds Of Snakes Triggers Panic Online

Beijing: Continuous heavy rains and severe floods in China's Guangxi province have increased the problems of the people. Due to the flood, the wall and dam of a large snake-rearing centre were damaged, after which about 900 snakes escaped from the farm and spread into the surrounding residential areas. Some poisonous species of snakes are also said to be among them. After the incident, there is an atmosphere of panic in the entire area and the local administration has advised people to remain alert.

Where did so many snakes come together from?

Guangxi is considered to be the largest snake farm area in China. Crores of snakes and other reptiles are reared here for medicines, leather products and research work. Due to the strong flow of flood, the security wall of the farm broke, due to which hundreds of snakes came out and reached the villages and roads.

What was shown in the video?

In the video going viral on social media, a large number of snakes are seen flowing with the flood water and crawling on the roads. In some videos, villagers are seen wading into waist-deep water and trying to catch snakes with the help of sticks and nets. These pictures have increased fear and anxiety among the people. 

Are all snakes poisonous?

According to local officials, not all the snakes that came out are poisonous. However, due to the possibility of dangerous species like cobra, people have been asked to remain cautious. The administration has deployed a special rescue team, which is catching the snakes with the help of nets and other equipment. People have been advised not to try to catch a snake themselves if they see a snake in or around their house and immediately inform the administration.

How much damage was caused by rain and flood?

Due to continuous rain, many rivers in China are flowing above the danger mark. Many people have lost their lives due to the storm and floods in eastern Hubei province, while thousands of people have been evacuated to safe places. Apart from this, lakhs of people have been affected by the impact of the cyclone. Snakes roaming freely amid floods have now become a new challenge for the local people.