Tourists returned home after stranding amid Beijing floods

Last week saw hundreds of tourists stranded in Beijing airports after days of heavy rainfall.

Travel Insurance News - 30/07/2012

<< Trains delayed amid cable theft | Travel News | Travel insurance industry thriving in Russia, Turkey >>

Last week saw thousands of tourists stranded in Beijing airports after days of heavy rainfall.

Hundreds of flights in and out of the Chinese capital had been cancelled during the wet weather period, which left hordes passengers stuck at Beijing Capital International Airport from Saturday and well into the week. However, reports said that most tourists have since been accommodated on flights home.

Chinese media said the heavy rains were the worst seen in the city for more than six decades and killed at least 37 people. Reports said that roofs collapsed on numerous homes, major roadways were flooded and damages have been estimated to be worth some 10 billion yuan (£960 million).

The Xinhua state news agency said that 460mm of rain was recorded in the Fangshan area, although totals in other parts of the city were substantially lower.

Travel experts say that the news is just another reminder of the importance of taking out travel cover for any holiday.

Despite the news, the majority of tourist sites in Beijing managed to escape significant damage. Sites that were hit hardest include Tong Zhou Grand Canal Forest Park, Shidu and Badachu Park, according to the Beijing Tourism Development Committee.

Meanwhile, the main road link between Hong Kong and Beijing remains blocked following severe flooding.

<< Trains delayed amid cable theft | Travel News | Travel insurance industry thriving in Russia, Turkey >>