Torrential downpours hit south China's Guangdong

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01:15

Heavy rainfall has hit south China's Guangdong Province over the past few days, causing waterlogging in several cities.

The downpours lasted for 24 hours straight in some areas, breaking local records.

In Shantou City, more than 500,000 people have been battling rising water levels.

Heavy rainfall hit south China's Guangdong Province, September 1, 2018. /VCG Photo

Many cities have become waterlogged in Guangdong Province, September 1, 2018. /VCG Photo

In Shantou's Chendian County, residents were evacuated to a nearby school. Although they had to make do with candles and desks instead of electric lights and beds, the residents said that's good enough for a sound sleep.

"It feels much better here than at home. I cannot even find a place to sleep in my own room," said resident Zhou Qing.

In Gaotan County, the 24-hour-long precipitation broke records, with water levels reaching over a meter high. Reports say that's equal to the amount of rain Beijing had in the past year and a half. Local authorities have taken measures to bring the flooded areas back to normal, but the heavy rain is expected to last till Sunday.