Hundreds of snakes escaped from a breeding farm in Hengzhou, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, after severe flooding triggered by Typhoon Maysak damaged the facility, the Global Times reported.
The incident occurred after heavy rainfall breached the embankment of a local reservoir, triggering flooding in the surrounding area.
An estimated 800 to 900 snakes escaped from the farm on Monday, though most are believed to be non-venomous. Wu Zhi, head of the Dengwei Village Committee in Yunbiao Township, told Red Star News that one villager had been bitten by a snake and was receiving emergency treatment in the hospital.
"The floodwaters have already swept away the vast majority of the snakes," Wu said. "Only a small number remain on floating waste in flooded areas. Most of the snakes captured so far are non-venomous water snakes."
Following the incident, residents from neighboring villages organized a volunteer snake-catching team to help contain the situation. Using fishing nets and other equipment, the team has been working to locate and capture the escaped reptiles.
Residents with no experience or skills in capturing reptiles are advised not to attempt to catch snakes themselves. "Only individuals with practical experience and professional knowledge should handle the animals to reduce the risk of injury," Wu added.
Local authorities in Hengzhou have also stepped up emergency medical preparedness. The antivenom stockpile has been expanded, and medical specialists from regional hospitals have been invited to provide on-site support.
Additional search-and-rescue patrols have been deployed across affected areas, while temporary medical stations have been set up to provide emergency treatment. A dedicated fast-track system for snakebite patients has also been activated to ensure timely medical care.
Meanwhile, health authorities and local governments have launched public awareness campaigns through village loudspeakers, WeChat groups and door-to-door visits, advising residents to avoid going out at night and stay away from areas where snakes are more likely to gather, including overgrown vegetation, ditches and floodwater.