More than 900 snakes escaped from breeding farms in Hengzhou, Guangxi, after severe flooding struck the region on July 9, 2026 [3].

The incident creates an immediate public safety crisis as venomous species, including cobras, have entered residential areas and public spaces. Local authorities are racing to capture the animals to prevent further injuries to the population.

The escapes occurred in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of southern China. Torrential rains and the impact of Typhoon Maysak caused floodwaters to inundate breeding facilities, destroying enclosures and allowing the reptiles to flee into the community [1, 2].

Reports on the exact number of escaped animals vary slightly across sources. While some reports indicate hundreds of snakes are missing [1], other accounts specify the number as almost 900 [2] or more than 900 [3].

Local residents have reported sightings of the snakes in streets and homes. Some residents have already been bitten as the reptiles seek shelter from the rising waters [2]. Emergency crews and animal control specialists are working to secure the perimeter of the affected farms and conduct search-and-capture operations throughout the city.

Authorities said citizens should remain vigilant and avoid contact with any reptiles encountered during the flood recovery process. The breach of the breeding farms highlights the vulnerability of specialized agricultural facilities during extreme weather events, especially as typhoon-driven flooding becomes more frequent in the region.

“More than 900 snakes escaped from breeding farms in Hengzhou”

This event underscores the intersection of climate-driven extreme weather and the risks associated with industrial animal breeding. When high-density farms for venomous species are located in flood-prone regions, a single weather event can transform a controlled commercial operation into a widespread public health emergency, necessitating specialized urban rescue capabilities.