Miyun Reservoir: Sword of Damocles Hanging Over Beijing

If Miyun Reservoir’s dam breached, the resulting flood could submerge Beijing and neighboring areas.

Flood-damaged cars are seen following heavy rains over the past few days in Huairou district, on the outskirts of Beijing on July 30, 2025. Pedro Pardo/AFP via Getty Images

Commentary

Torrential rains wreaked havoc in northern China in late July, with severe flooding exacerbated by large-scale reservoir discharges with high flow rates and minimal warning. At least 60 people have died, with dozens missing as of July 31.