In a devastating incident that occurred early Wednesday morning, a section of a highway in southern China collapsed, resulting in the death of at least 24 people, according to state media reports. The tragic accident took place in Meizhou city, located in Guangdong province.

According to authorities in Meizhou, a 58.7-foot long section of the highway gave way, causing a terrifying chain of events. As a result, a total of 18 cars plummeted down a slope. The incident took place at around 2 a.m., shrouding the area in a sense of darkness and shock.

By Wednesday afternoon, the death toll had tragically increased to 24, according to China's official Xinhua News agency. The scene of the incident was chaotic, with witnesses recounting the terrifying moment when they heard a loud noise and noticed a hole opening up several meters wide behind them, just after driving past the ill-fated section of the road.

Videos and photos circulated in local media captured the enormity of the disaster. Smoke and fire engulfed the scene, with highway rails slanted downward into the flames. A distressing sight of blackened cars could be seen scattered on the slope leading down from the highway. The collapsed section of the road, along with the ground beneath it, crumbled into what can be best described as a horrifying abyss.

The region of Guangdong has experienced unprecedented levels of rainfall and flooding over the past two weeks, accompanied by hailstorms. Meizhou, in particular, has been severely affected, with multiple villages succumbing to flooding in early April. Heavy rains persisting in recent days had only amplified the vulnerability of the region's infrastructure.

Rescue operations quickly swung into action, with brave first responders tirelessly striving to save lives. So far, around 30 injured individuals have been rushed to the hospital for immediate medical attention, as reported by the state broadcaster CCTV.

As the rescue efforts continue, questions arise regarding the condition of the highway and the factors that contributed to the tragic collapse. Authorities are likely to launch a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of this devastating incident and take necessary measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The collapse of this section of the highway in southern China serves as a somber reminder of the importance of maintaining and assessing the safety of critical infrastructure, particularly during times of extreme weather events. The thoughts and condolences of the global community go out to the victims and their families affected by this tragic incident.