As many as 35 people are missing following a landslide in southeastern China, state media reported. Rescue efforts are ongoing.
The landslide occurred early Sunday after a heavy weekend downpour in Fujian province, Xinhua news agency reported. Nearly 20 cm (8 inches) of rain fell in the mountainous region in less than 24 hours, according to the report.
When the landslide occurred about 5 a.m. local time, mud and rocks flowed downhill, burying a construction site where a hydroelectric power station was being built.
China’s President Xi Jinping urged “maximum efforts” for the rescue and care of those unaccounted for. Premier Li Keqiang echoed the demand, calling for the Ministry of Land and Resources to coordinate with local authorities on the search and rescue mission.
The National Meteorological Center had warned residents in the province and neighboring areas to beware of possible landslides brought on by the heavy rain.
Tourist spots in the province were closed Sunday morning because of the disaster.