What began as a flood rescue operation has turned into a public safety crisis, with hundreds of escaped snakes—including venomous cobras
Panic has gripped parts of southern China after nearly 900 snakes, including venomous cobras, escaped from a breeding farm during devastating floods triggered by Typhoon Maysak. Authorities have confirmed multiple snakebite incidents, with at least one person reported dead following a cobra bite as emergency teams race to recapture the reptiles.
The incident occurred in Hengzhou, in China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, where floodwaters damaged a commercial snake breeding facility, allowing hundreds of snakes to spill into nearby villages.
Floodwaters unleash hundreds of snakes
Videos circulating on social media show snakes slithering through flooded streets and fields, with frightened residents using sticks to keep the reptiles at bay.
Officials said the escaped reptiles include both venomous and non-venomous species, though the presence of cobras has significantly heightened the risk to residents. Authorities have urged people not to approach or attempt to catch the snakes themselves.
🚨A massive flood struck Guangxi, China. A snake farm was completely destroyed by the raging waters. Nearly 900 snakes, including highly venomous cobras, have escaped, slithering everywhere through the flooded area😱#ChinaFlood #NaturalDisaster pic.twitter.com/IMHhACoghg
— Nature Paws| Rim (@ykhana2_hana) July 8, 2026
Emergency teams launch capture operation
Local authorities have deployed specialised rescue teams equipped with nets and stun guns to track and recapture the escaped snakes.
Hospitals across the region have also increased anti-venom supplies and activated fast-track treatment protocols for snakebite victims as a precaution.
Flood crisis deepens
The snake escape has added to the challenges posed by severe flooding across Guangxi, where heavy rainfall has damaged infrastructure, forced large-scale evacuations and caused multiple fatalities.
China has mobilised rescue personnel to assist affected communities as authorities continue efforts to contain the flood emergency and prevent further casualties.
Residents urged to remain alert
Emergency management officials have advised residents to avoid floodwaters wherever possible and immediately report any snake sightings to local authorities.
The rescue operation is continuing as officials work to locate the remaining escaped snakes and restore safety in the affected areas.
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