More than 8,000 rescue workers descend on tornado zone in eastern China
Thousands span out to search for survivors and improve conditions for those who were evacuated or lost their homes
Rescuers raced against time on Friday to search for survivors of a tornado that killed at least 98 people and injured more than 800 when it swept through a densely populated area of eastern China the day before.
More than 8,000 rescue workers had been scrambled from across Jiangsu province to join relief efforts, including police officers, active and reserve soldiers and firefighters, China Central Television reported.
Tornado kills at least 98 people, injures 800 in eastern Chinese counties
Ninety one survivors had been rescued by the afternoon, while about 1,100 others had been relocated.
The People’s Hospital of Funing county in Yancheng, a 1,400 sq km city with a population of more than 1.1 million that felt the brunt of the tornado, was packed with the injured. People with light injuries were transferred to hospitals in neighbouring counties to make room for the most serious cases, CCTV said.
With most victims located, relief efforts were now focused on improving temporary conditions for victims and preventing epidemics. Many relocated villagers were staying in tents, which were extremely hot during the day.