China: 30 Dead, 18 Missing After Beijing Floods

Image copyright: Wikimedia Commons

The Spin

Pro-China narrative

Beijing is fully focused on post-disaster recovery following this latest heavy rainfall. Hydraulic facilities and residential housing are being repaired, all while the government continues with the construction of improved infrastructure to future-proof transport, energy, communication, and other facilities against further extreme weather. This situation is being effectively addressed and the residents of affected areas are the government's top priority.

Anti-China narrative

The damage done by flooding in Beijing and Hebei could take years to repair, all while regions elsewhere in China tackle the threat of drought. Dealing with these concurrent disasters could pose a serious challenge to Beijing's one-party, top-down political system, as it may make local authorities unwilling or unable to respond. Pres. Xi Jinping is continuing to lead China into a future dominated by fossil fuel investment and restricted regional or localized power, but the increasing effects of climate change and, therefore, extreme weather, will make these choices environmentally and politically unsustainable.

Metaculus Prediction


Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO

Sign Up for Our Free Newsletters
Sign Up for Our Free Newsletters

Sign Up!
Sign Up Now!