Shaanxi Province, China | July 31, 2025 —
A severe flash flood struck Wuqi County in Shaanxi Province, sweeping away nearly 20 kilograms of gold, silver, and diamond jewelry from the Laofengxiang gold shop. The sudden disaster has led to widespread local searches, with many residents scouring the muddy streets in a frantic hunt for lost valuables.
Flood Strikes Gold Shop Without Warning
On the morning of July 25, staff arrived to open the shop when flood warnings were sounded. Within minutes, rushing water over one metre high burst into the premises. The entire display—including bracelets, necklaces, pendants, earrings, diamond rings, jade pieces, and silver ornaments—was carried away. Even the safe, containing cash and recycled gold, was lost, according to the owner, Mr. Ye.
Lost Loot Worth Over ₹12 Crore
Totals suggest that more than 10 million yuan (approx. ₹12 crore) worth of jewelry vanished in the flood—truly staggering monetary value washed away in an instant.
Locals Race to Recover Lost Jewels
Once the waters receded, hundreds of residents poured into the flooded streets. Some armed with *metal detectors, they hunted through mud and debris trying to reclaim the lost valuables. A few individuals returned items voluntarily, but the bulk remains missing. Mr. Ye’s son reported only about *1 kilogram of jewelry has been recovered so far.
Investigation Underway, Reward Offered
Authorities including the local Market Supervision Bureau and Public Security Bureau have opened an investigation. The shop has offered monetary rewards for jewelry that is returned voluntarily. Meanwhile, rigorous follow-ups may lead to legal action against those withholding found items.
Floods Add to Widespread Disaster Toll
This flash flood is part of a broader pattern of extreme rainfall devastating northern China. In provinces including Beijing, Hebei, Shanxi, and Inner Mongolia, heavy storms have caused widespread destruction. The capital, Beijing, has reported at least 38 deaths and the evacuation of over 80,000 people amid flooded streets and landslides
Key Highlights:
- Nearly 20 kg of jewelry—gold, silver, diamonds—washed away from Laofengxiang shop
- Losses estimated at over ₹12 crore (¥10 million)
- Local residents searched the aftermath using metal detectors
- Only 1 kg recovered so far, many items remain missing
- Government agencies launched an official probe
- Rewards offered for voluntarily returned jewelry
- Flash floods part of widespread rain crisis causing deaths and evacuations in northern China