1 killed, 4 missing as rainstorm lashes China's Chongqing

Vehement rainstorms have claimed one life while four others are missing in southwest China's Chongqing, local authorities confirmed Friday.

The disaster management office of Chongqing said heavy rains started pouring on Thursday, with the maximum rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters over a 24-hour period in 20 counties and districts.

More than 150,000 people have been affected in the municipality, including 3,222 who were relocated.

Rain and flooding also damaged 2,310 hectares of farmland and hundreds of houses, according to the office.

Local officials estimated the immediate economic loss at 64.6 million yuan (about US$9.12 million).

Since June 2, downpours have hit large parts of south China, resulting in dangerously high water levels in more than 100 rivers.