Another grim test

With the nation preoccupied with the daunting relief and rebuilding tasks in the quake zone in the southwest Sichuan province, sad figures from the Office of the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters (SFDH) warn us that more troubles may be on their way for our natural disaster-prone country.

Till yesterday, the deadliest of rainstorms of the year have left 48 people dead, 25 missing, and numerous homes in ruins in some parts of the country.

This may be only the beginning of another capricious high-water season. Judging from past experiences, the worst is yet to come. In most years, the high concentration of precipitation in July and August usually accompanies heavier losses.