Residents in Hengzhou, southern China, are facing a terrifying situation after around 900 venomous snakes escaped into nearby communities following devastating floods caused by Typhoon Maysak.

The snakes, which were reportedly swept away by floodwaters, have added to the chaos caused by the storm, which has already claimed at least 39 lives.Chilling videos show the reptiles roaming freely in flood-affected areas, with reports of several people suffering snake bites.A woman died after being bitten by a snake believed to have escaped from a flooded reptile farm.Authorities are working to capture the snakes while urging residents to stay alert.Hospitals have been instructed to stock anti-venom as medical teams prepare for emergencies.The snakes are not the only escapees; floodwaters also damaged a local zoo, allowing animals like zebras and donkeys to roam freely.Communities are dealing with multiple dangers, including damaged infrastructure and displaced wildlife.Officials stress the need for caution until floodwaters recede and all escaped animals are accounted for.