Flash floods in northern and southwestern China have killed at least 20 people and left dozens missing, state media reported on Saturday, following a week of heavy downpours across the country.

In Shaanxi province, a bridge collapse late Friday caused several vehicles to plunge into a swollen river, killing at least 12 people and leaving over 30 missing.

Initial reports indicated that 17 cars and eight trucks fell into the river in Shangluo city. Images showed a partially submerged bridge section with water rushing over it.

A witness described how other drivers yelled at him to stop his car just before a truck ahead of him plunged into the water.

In Sichuan province, more than 30 people were reported missing on Saturday after a violent thunderstorm caused flash flooding in Ya’an town.

Eight bodies were recovered, and four people were rescued without serious injuries, the AFP has reported.

Earlier reports from state media indicated that five people were dead and eight missing due to flooding and mudslides in Shaanxi’s Baoji city.

President Xi Jinping has called for “all-out rescue and relief efforts” to find those still missing.

State television showed images of flooded neighborhoods with excavators and residents working to clear the damage.

Written by B.C. Begley