Major mudslides and landslides triggered by frequent aftershocks are threatening the safety of earthquake survivors and rescuers. Landslides have changed the course of the Minjiang River and blocked road access.

From the air, the mountains look like they have been cut by a huge knife. Landslides have changed the course of the Minjiang River into a zig-zag pattern.

In northwest Sichuan, the land is mainly composed of sand and rocks making it very unstable. The powerful earthquake and subsequent heavy rainfall caused many large landslides.

With roads blocked, vehicles carrying relief materials have formed long queues. Road maintenance crew are working hard to clearing the way, with little consideration for their own safety.

The whole valley is shrouded in dust and visibility is less than one kilometer. The road is covered with boulders and some sections have been wiped out.

(CCTV May 21, 2008)