Severe flooding in China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region has triggered widespread concern after floodwaters damaged a commercial snake breeding farm, allowing an estimated 800 to 900 snakes to escape into nearby areas.
The incident occurred after days of torrential rain caused rivers and reservoirs to overflow, inundating villages and damaging agricultural facilities, including snake farms that are common in parts of southern China.
Videos circulating on social media show numerous reptiles floating through floodwaters, prompting fear among local residents. While some users claimed the animals seen in the footage were venomous snakes, others argued that some of the creatures could be turtles or other aquatic animals. Authorities have not independently verified every viral video, and officials have urged people not to rely on unverified social media claims.
According to local officials, the flooding destroyed enclosures at the breeding facility, allowing hundreds of snakes to escape. Most of the escaped reptiles are believed to be non-venomous water snakes and rat snakes, although officials have confirmed that some venomous cobras were also among the escaped animals, increasing safety concerns for nearby communities.
Following the incident, emergency teams and local volunteers launched large-scale operations to capture the escaped reptiles. Snake-catching teams equipped with nets and protective equipment have been searching flooded streets, fields and residential areas to prevent encounters between residents and the animals.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid approaching or attempting to capture any snake they encounter. Instead, people have been instructed to immediately inform emergency personnel so trained responders can safely remove the reptiles.
Officials have also warned residents to remain cautious while cleaning flood-damaged homes, moving debris or walking through standing water, as snakes may seek shelter inside buildings, vehicles or piles of flood debris.
Hospitals and emergency medical teams have strengthened their preparedness for possible snakebite cases. Medical facilities in the affected region continue to maintain adequate supplies of anti-venom and have established emergency treatment procedures for anyone bitten by venomous snakes. Authorities have clarified that reports claiming hospitals had run out of anti-venom are false, and sufficient stocks remain available for treatment.
The flooding has affected thousands of residents across Guangxi, forcing evacuations in several communities as rescue teams continue relief operations. Emergency workers are also monitoring river levels, damaged infrastructure and weather conditions because additional rainfall could create further risks.
Commercial snake farming is a well-established industry in parts of southern China, where snakes are bred for medicinal products, research and other commercial purposes. During major floods, breeding facilities can become vulnerable if enclosures are damaged by rapidly rising water.
Wildlife experts say floodwaters often force reptiles to search for higher ground, bringing them into closer contact with human settlements. They advise residents not to panic but to exercise caution until floodwaters recede and rescue teams complete search operations.
Authorities continue to monitor the affected areas while rescue teams work to recover the remaining escaped snakes and ensure public safety as flood recovery efforts continue.