15
:
1.
No 48.
BRITISH CONSULATE GENERAL,
CANTON.
July 15th 1915.
203
PICAL DIE
1-88 OWN
EN
12h Bazndarvet.
FIRDA NE Orenog sidd
rh
Chenelom wi
est edirundregge sdt,
Hosp
Sir,
I regret to have to report that very serious floods
have occurred in this district. At the moment of writing
communication with the officials is impossible and I am
therefore unable even to estimate the extent of the damage,
but there can, I think, be little doubt that the greater
part of the Delta is under water.
The rise in the river was noticeable a week ago when
reports were received of floods in various country districts.
But on the 11th, 18th and 13th instant the rise w29 80
rapid that Canton city was taken by surprise and the
disaster was complete.. Parts of the city proper are on
fairly high ground and may have escaped, but the surburbs
are covered to a depth of from four to eight feet of water.
The inhabitants are living on the roofs of their houses,
many of which, it is said, are collapsing. The catastrophe
has been so sudden that no relief work has been organized.
he Right Honourable
Sir J.N.Jordan, G. C. I.E., K. C.B., K. C. M.G.,
&o..
80.. &c.,
His Majesty's Minister,
PEKING.
The