Beijing issues blue alert for rainstorms

BEIJING, July 10 (Xinhua) -- Beijing issued a blue alert for rainstorms early Thursday morning and initiated a Level-IV flood control emergency response citywide.

Heavy rainfall had already hit Beijing by the night of Wednesday. The Beijing meteorological observatory issued a blue rainstorm warning at 6:33 a.m. Thursday.

According to data released by the municipal meteorological department at around 7:00 a.m. Thursday, on Thursday morning, most areas of the city are expected to experience intense precipitation with an hourly rainfall exceeding 30 mm and a six-hour accumulation surpassing 50 mm.

Mountainous and hilly regions face potential secondary disasters such as flash floods, mudslides, and landslides triggered by the downpour, while low-lying areas may suffer from waterlogging.

Beijing activated a citywide Level-IV flood control emergency response at 7:00 a.m. Thursday. Local authorities advised all relevant departments to implement flood prevention measures and urged the public to stay updated on forecasts, carry rain gear, and avoid sheltering near high-rise buildings or billboards. Drivers were advised to exercise caution on slippery roads and steer clear of flooded sections.

China has a four-tier weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. The national emergency response system also has four tiers, with Level I being the highest. ■