Beijing activates Level II flood response ahead of heavy rain

Beijing activated a Level II flood-control emergency response at 9 a.m. Tuesday as heavy rain is forecast from Tuesday evening through Wednesday.

The National Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters and the Ministry of Emergency Management also activated a Level IV flood-control emergency response for Beijing and Tianjin.

Most areas are expected to receive more than 100 millimeters of rain in six hours and 150 millimeters in 24 hours. Rainfall could exceed 150 mm in six hours and 200 mm in 24 hours in Tongzhou, Daxing, Fangshan, Mentougou, Huairou and Fengtai districts, and Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area.

Authorities have pre-positioned drainage equipment and flood barriers, relocated people from areas at risk of flooding and geological disasters, and suspended construction and mountain and water-related tourism activities.

From Wednesday, flexible working arrangements and staggered commuting will be encouraged. Schools and outdoor activities may be suspended depending on weather conditions, while temporary traffic controls may be imposed in high-risk areas and on key emergency response routes. Public transport services will be adjusted or suspended if necessary to ensure safety.

Residents are advised to reduce unnecessary travel, stay away from rivers and avoid mountain and water-related outdoor activities. People in areas threatened by flooding, landslides or mudslides should evacuate promptly and not return until it is safe.