The Qiantang River tidal bore is renowned for its temperamental behavior. Riverbanks, estuaries, and entire ecosystems are often consumed by its destructive path. They not only destroy ecosystems, but they have a significant impact on human life, too. This particular tidal bore alone claims dozens of lives each year by drowning. Unfortunately, some people choose to ignore posted warning signs, and it’s perhaps the most foolish thing one can do.
This footage comes to your from Meinv dam in Hangzhou city, Zhejiang Province. The ferocious tidal bore can be seen ripping through a river bank when a group of spectators experience first-hand the true nature and unpredictability of tidal bores before it was too late. Around 20 visitors were knocked down and washed away from the powerful wave. Fortunately, no casualties occurred.
But as dangerous as this wave can be, dozens of surfers travel this region of China every year to surf it. Yes, they surf the tidal bore. In fact, every year, Red Bull hosts the Qiantang River Surfing Shoot Out. This may sound crazy, but those surfers are very well-read and physically prepared to handle waves of much greater consequence. Perhaps the greatest thing they have to worry about is the water quality. In the end, this video should serve as an example to never ignore warning signs. Never. They aren’t put there for no reason.
