Eastern China experienced a devastating tornado that claimed the lives of 10 people and caused severe injuries to several others, marking the latest in a series of extreme weather events to impact the nation. State media reported the tragic incident on Wednesday.

“Yesterday afternoon, a strong tornado occurred in Suqian, Jiangsu Province… causing casualties and property loss in certain areas,” stated the state broadcaster, CCTV.

The tornado’s impact extended to more than 5,500 individuals, with preliminary statistics indicating the collapse of 137 houses, as reported by state media. Over 400 people have been temporarily relocated due to the destruction caused by the tornado.

Video footage shared on social media, including by the state-run People’s Daily, showed the tornado’s powerful winds hurling debris above residential buildings. The streets were strewn with fallen signs and various objects, illustrating the intensity of the natural disaster.

China has witnessed a series of extreme weather events this summer, including record-breaking downpours and weeks of historic heat. Scientists have linked these occurrences to the effects of climate change, suggesting that such extreme weather is becoming more frequent and severe.

The Jiangsu Province, where the tornado struck, has experienced similar devastating weather in the past. In 2016, the region was hit by a storm with hurricane-force winds, coupled with the worst tornado in half a century, resulting in the levelling of entire villages and claiming the lives of at least 98 people.