Tianjin evacuates thousands amid historic floods

Among those rescued was Cui Chuanying, a parent from Jinan, Shandong province.

"We were here with our kids for speed skating training when the flood hit," Cui said. "The bridge collapsed, trapping coaches, parents, and over 20 children. By Monday, we'd lost all communication — no power, no water. We could only wait, praying for help. Thankfully, the People's Liberation Army brought us out to a secure facility today."