The incident occurred on July 6 in Dengwei village of Hengzhou city, where breached reservoirs unleashed powerful floodwaters that inundated a commercial snake farm. The flooding allowed approximately 800 to 900 snakes to escape. Most of the reptiles were non-venomous, but the escaped population also included dangerous species such as cobras, kraits, and pit vipers.
Hundreds of snakes are on the loose in China after severe flooding damaged a breeding farm, allowing around 900 reptiles to escape.
— Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) July 11, 2026
Venomous snakes, including cobras, are reportedly among them as authorities warn residents and launch a massive search.pic.twitter.com/rnN2c0mgJI
The escape has already resulted in casualties. At least one villager was bitten by a snake and was hospitalized for treatment. Another woman died after suffering a snake bite when flood-blocked roads delayed access to medical assistance.
Authorities have urged residents to immediately report any snake sightings as emergency teams continue an extensive search for the escaped reptiles. Equipped with nets and stun guns, rescue personnel are attempting to capture the snakes before they pose a greater threat to nearby communities.
The snake escape has unfolded amid a wider flood crisis across
About The Author
Comment List