Reader Edition

Foreign Policy

Infrastructure failure in China: Bridge collapses as floodwaters surge

A vehicle was swept into a river in Hubei province after a bridge structure gave way during severe flooding.

Foreign PolicyPublished May 26, 2026 at 9:12 AMProcessed May 26, 2026 at 4:53 PM
A white car falling into a hole in a collapsing bridge

A dramatic structural failure occurred in Xiaogan, Hubei province, on May 25, when a bridge collapsed amidst days of relentless rainfall and flooding. Footage captured the terrifying moment a vehicle, which had reportedly malfunctioned and become stuck on the edge of the failing structure, was swept into the fast-flowing river below.

While the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather and failing infrastructure, the driver and passengers were fortunate enough to escape the vehicle before it was lost to the current.

Local reports confirm that the collapse took place following a period of prolonged, heavy precipitation that has left the region struggling with significant flood damage.

Tags

foreign-policychinainfrastructurefloodinghubei

More in Foreign Policy

An image of a burnt-out blue car in front of a heavily damaged building with blown-out windows and burned exterior walls. A firefighter in uniform sprays the blue car
Foreign Policy2h ago

Trump Delivers Decisive Blows to Iranian Regime as Tehran Escalates Hostilities

The United States has launched a series of self-defense strikes against Iranian military and radar installations after President Trump made it clear that Iran’s refusal to reach a reasonable deal would be met with overwhelming force.

Satellite image of strike on the tanker
Foreign Policy4h ago

U.S. Military Strikes Iranian Oil Smugglers in Gulf of Oman

The U.S. military successfully struck a tanker attempting to transport Iranian oil in violation of a blockade, resulting in casualties among the crew who failed to comply with American directives.

woman walks past wall painted with images of people and the Iranian flag
Foreign Policy14h ago

Trump Delivers Decisive Blows to Iranian Regime as Tehran Refuses to Negotiate

President Trump has authorized continued military strikes against Iranian targets in response to Tehran's ongoing belligerence and refusal to sign a deal that would permanently dismantle their nuclear program.