Not A Boat, But A Lighthouse: Typhoon Bavi Creates A Viral Flood Mystery

A bizarre scene from Typhoon Bavi 2026 has captured global attention after a lighthouse appeared to drift through floodwaters in China, turning into what social media users called a “floating lighthouse.” The unusual incident happened as torrential rains from the powerful storm triggered widespread flooding across northeastern China.

Videos circulating online showed the lighthouse being carried by floodwaters after heavy rainfall weakened the surrounding ground and caused water levels to rise rapidly. Experts explained that the structure was not lifted by winds alone but was likely swept away after prolonged rain caused erosion and powerful flood currents.

Typhoon Bavi brought extreme rainfall to several parts of China, affecting regions including Liaoning, Jilin, Heilongjiang, Hebei, Beijing, Tianjin, Inner Mongolia and Shandong. Authorities reported flooded roads, damaged infrastructure, transport disruptions and emergency evacuations as the storm moved through the country.

Liaoning province became one of the worst affected areas, with more than 260,000 people evacuated due to severe flooding. In Shenyang, a lighthouse reportedly broke away after damaging a high voltage power line and was seen moving through flooded streets, creating the dramatic “floating lighthouse” visuals.

Meteorologists said Typhoon Bavi acted like a “moisture pump,” pushing warm and humid air toward northeastern China. The combination of tropical moisture, monsoon conditions and cooler air contributed to prolonged heavy rainfall and rising flood risks.

Authorities issued flood warnings and continued monitoring rivers and reservoirs as more rainfall was expected in affected areas. The storm has been described as one of the most powerful systems to hit mainland China in 2026, maintaining its strength due to its ability to carry large amounts of moisture.

The dramatic lighthouse footage has become a symbol of Typhoon Bavi’s destructive impact , showing how extreme weather events can transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary disaster images.