Power resumes after two-day blackout in SW China

NANNING - Power supply resumed Tuesday in two scenic counties in Southwest China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region after heavy downpours caused a blackout for two days.

Rivers in Yangshuo and Pingnan counties swelled after persistent rainstorms, which damaged the power grid.

Floods and rainwater also gushed into the streets in Yangshuo's county seat, including a well-known bar and cafe on West Street. Many scenic spots also suffered waterlogging.

Yangshuo is known for its picturesque karst peaks and the turquoise Lijiang River. No casualties have been reported so far, although over 100 houses collapsed and 292 roads, two harbors and 9 bridges were damaged and hundreds of vehicles were submerged.

Schools had one day off on Monday, and all scenic resorts suspended business.

The Guangxi Power Grid made an emergency repair of 34 damaged power lines over the past two days to resume electricity supply. Local authorities have mobilized people to help drain and treat water.

Heavy rain has pounded much of southern and eastern China since the weekend. The rain also disrupted traffic and affected millions.