Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday visited several villages in Zixing City to inspect relief efforts.

Thirty people had been confirmed dead and 35 others remained missing as of noon on Thursday after typhoon-induced intense rains lashed Zixing City, central China's Hunan Province. The province has experienced multiple rounds of heavy rainfall, causing severe flooding and landslides in some areas.

Li emphasized prioritizing search and rescue efforts as well as repairing and reopening roads, electricity and communication infrastructure and putting measures in place to avoid secondary disasters.

Li extended his gratitude to the emergency rescue personnel who have been on the front line.

He also visited a relocation site, where he instructed local authorities and relevant departments to ensure the basic needs of those relocated.

Li noted that this is the most critical period for flood prevention, and it is necessary to minimize disaster risks and reduce losses.

He said the protection of people's lives and safety must always be the top priority, and it is essential to strengthen monitoring, early warning and emergency response coordination.

(Cover: Residents are transferred in Zixing City, Hunan Province, central China, July 28, 2024. /CFP)