Beijing issues rainstorm, flood alerts amid heavy downpours

BEIJING, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in Beijing issued alerts for rainstorms and flooding on Monday as parts of the Chinese capital brace for torrential rainfall, raising concerns over flash floods and landslides in mountainous areas.

The city's meteorological bureau issued an orange rainstorm warning, the second-highest in China's four-tier alert system, at 9:15 a.m., forecasting widespread heavy rain through 10 a.m. Tuesday.

Rainfall is expected to exceed 100 mm over six hours across several districts, including Miyun, Pinggu, Huairou, Shunyi and Fangshan, with some areas potentially receiving more than 250 mm.

On Monday morning, Beijing also issued a red flood alert, the highest level.

Over 3,000 residents were evacuated from Miyun District on Sunday following heavy rains, local authorities said.

Residents have been advised to avoid mountainous areas due to elevated risks of landslides and to stay clear of low-lying areas at risk of flooding.

Several reservoirs across the city are currently discharging water to manage rising levels, with authorities warning the public to stay away from fast-flowing river sections. ■