Exhausted rescuers rest when they can in Guizhou

In Zunyi's Bifeng town in Guizhou province, a rescuer sleeps on his helmet. [Photo by Fire Rescue Detachment of Zunyi City/For chinadaily.com.cn]

After working 36 consecutive hours to help flood victims, rescuers were exhausted and some fell asleep on the roadside.

Heavy rain hit Zunyi city's Bifeng town in Guizhou province on Friday, leaving eight dead and five missing. Rainfalls reached a record high of 16.3 millimeters within one hour, according to local authorities.

Relief and rescue teams were sent to the site immediately. Search work is still underway.

Che Weiwei contributed to this story.