Jan. 6 (UPI) — Heavy snowstorms in eastern and central China have left 10 dead and countless others injured, following the collapse of more than 200 houses.
State-owned news agency Xinhua reported Friday that Anhui, Hubei and Jiangsu provinces have been pounded with snow blizzards.
The heavy snow has led to the collapse of 200 residences in the region, and a total of 10 people have died across five provinces, and 567,000 more have suffered damages.
The data came from Chinese emergency management authorities, according to the report.
In rural areas, farmers suffered substantial losses, estimated at about $785 million.
China shut down 45 train service lines, all departing from Beijing, as heavy snow conditions made travel dangerous across the country.
In the city of Hefei, Anhui province, the collapse of more than 15 bus stop shelters sparked concern in China over public safety, state tabloid Global Times reported.
Online commenters have criticized shoddy construction for the collapse, and local media is seeking out authorities who are responsible for the damages.
At least one person was crushed to death under a collapsed bus roof, according to the report.
“The incident happened during rush hour. Many passengers were waiting under the roof for the bus,” one witness said.
