China activates emergency flood control response in Guangdong, Guangxi

BEIJING -- China's Ministry of Water Resources on Sunday activated a Level-IV emergency flood control response in the southern Guangdong province and Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, in anticipation of Typhoon Tapah.

According to the ministry, from Sept 7 to 10, the two provincial regions will see heavy rainfall triggered by Typhoon Tapah, the 16th typhoon of the year.

To cope with potential flooding, the ministry has held rolling consultations and made detailed arrangements for flood prevention. Local authorities have urged the close monitoring of rainfall, flood conditions and the typhoon's path, and strengthened forecasting and early warning procedures, as well as the ensured safe operations of reservoirs and ongoing projects.

They were also instructed to step up dike inspections and enhance preparedness for floods in small and medium-sized rivers, mountain torrents and urban waterlogging to safeguard lives and property.