South China on alert as rainstorms hit

HEFEI, July 9 (Xinhua) --Heavy downpours have lashed many localities in south China since July 4, heightening the risk of natural disasters and prompting local authorities to take safety measures.

In southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, several rounds of rainstorms have pushed up water levels in local small and mid-sized rivers. In Fengjie County, a landslide of about 100,000 cubic meters struck on Wednesday, with authorities managing to evacuate 69 people in advance thanks to the timely warning.

In Hefei, capital of east China's Anhui Province, water levels exceeded the limits in two local reservoirs on Thursday, prompting authorities to open the floodgates to release water. Across the province, several reservoirs also saw their water levels rise significantly.

Central China's Hubei Province also experienced heavy rainfall. To help fight flooding, the provincial authorities have prepared anti-flood supplies in case disasters strike. The water levels in local rivers, lakes and reservoirs are currently stable.

More rainfall is expected to hit south China from Friday to Saturday, according to the National Meteorological Center. Enditem