BEIJING: China has activated a Level-IV flood emergency response for Guangdong, Guangxi and Hainan as Typhoon Narra brings the risk of torrential rain, rising rivers and flash floods across parts of southern China.
The Ministry of Water Resources said heavy to torrential rainfall was expected from August 22 to 24, with some areas facing extremely heavy downpours. Authorities warned that rivers in the three regions could rise rapidly and some smaller waterways may exceed official flood-warning levels.
The response covers some of southern China’s most exposed areas as authorities step up monitoring of rainfall, rivers, reservoirs and communities vulnerable to mountain torrents and urban flooding.
Several waterways are expected to experience rising levels, including rivers and tributaries in Guangxi, Guangdong and Hainan. The Zuojiang and Mingjiang rivers in Guangxi are among those at risk of exceeding warning levels, according to the Ministry of Water Resources.
Flood and landslide risks under close watch
Water authorities have been instructed to strengthen rainfall and river monitoring, improve forecasting and early-warning systems, and coordinate the operation of reservoirs and other water infrastructure to reduce flood risks.
Particular attention is being given to mountain torrents, small and medium-sized rivers, vulnerable reservoirs and low-lying areas where intense rainfall could create sudden hazards.
Officials have also been told to update lists of high-risk locations and move residents from dangerous areas when necessary.
The ministry said safety measures should extend to tourists and workers at construction sites, particularly during the summer travel season and ongoing flood period.
Local authorities have been urged to ensure drainage channels remain operational and to increase inspections of reservoirs, embankments and other vulnerable flood-control infrastructure.
The wider emergency response comes as the typhoon system affects the northern South China Sea and surrounding coastal regions.
China’s emergency authorities had earlier activated a Level-IV response for typhoon and flood control covering Hainan, Guangxi and Guangdong, citing forecasts of heavy rainfall and strengthening winds.
A separate Level-IV emergency response was also activated for Fujian Province as authorities prepared for the impact of severe weather in southeastern China.
China operates a four-tier emergency response system for flood control, with Level I representing the highest and most severe level.
The Level-IV activation allows authorities to strengthen coordination, monitoring and preventive measures while preparing for possible evacuations and emergency operations if conditions worsen.
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