AWFUL DISASTER

Hokitika Guardian, 31 August 1931, Page 5

AWFUL DISASTER

CHINESE FLOODS LOSS OF 300,000 LIVES AN UNPARALELLED CALAMITY. Press Association— By Electric Telegraph.—Copyright.) SHANGHAI, August 31. Official reports from Nanking estimate the total loss of life along the Grand Canal at three hundred thousand. Caused by the collapse of dykes in densely populated areas in the Yangchow district, following a typhoon which passed on the 25th, owing to lack of communication, the Provincial Governor was unable to report the catastrophe lie fore. Following unprecedented rains, filteen sections of the canal collapsed, completely submerging eight towns, Kaoyu containing half a million inhabitants. suffering the worst. Kaingso Government is unable to cope with the situation, which renders relief means almost beyond control.

Hankow situation is unchanged. A cholera epidemic has broken out compelling the evacuation of practically all foreigners. NOW FALLING, SHANGHAI, August 29. President Cliiang Kai Shek has arrived at Hankow to discuss relief measures, and to counter expected Communist attacks The waters are now receNncr, and the flood .situation is easier. The authorities at Shanghai are shipping wheat, flour, and rice, and are planning refugee camps on distant hills, where they will be less menacing to peace and to health.