Large Group of Chinese Selfie-Takers Swept Away by Giant Tidal Bore

A group of around 20 people gathered at the riverbank in Hangzhou to capture selfies with the Qiantang River’s tidal bore, only to be swept away by its powerful waves.

Despite the chaotic scene, no lives were lost. A video shared on social media platform X shows the tense moment when two fathers shielded their children, and all were eventually rescued. Translations of the footage confirm that everyone made it to safety.

The unusually strong tidal wave was likely caused by Typhoon Yagi, a devastating superstorm that has already claimed 141 lives in Vietnam and caused widespread destruction across Southeast Asia.

As selfie-related fatalities rise in 2024 — with nine reported so far, including Czech gymnast Natalie Stichova’s tragic fall last month — the incident serves as a stark reminder to exercise caution while taking photos in dangerous environments.