900 Snakes, Including Cobras, Escape from Flood-Submerged Farm in China

The floods that swept through southern China turned into an unexpected nightmare after hundreds of snakes, including highly venomous species, escaped into residential neighborhoods following the inundation of a snake-breeding farm, prompting authorities to warn residents of the danger.

Chinese media reported that heavy rains accompanying Tropical Storm “Maysak” flooded a snake-breeding farm in Hangzhou City, Guangxi Region, causing between 800 and 900 snakes to escape, including cobras, water snakes, and royal kingsnakes.

One local resident, who was bitten by a cobra, told Beijing News that he witnessed “hundreds of snakes fleeing at once,” adding that he was injured while clearing debris from his home after floodwaters receded.