Capital residents advised to be vigilant as heavy rain nears

Much of northern China, including Beijing, will have strong rainfall starting on Tuesday, according to the city's weather authority, which has reminded the public to be aware of potential risks. The city's flood control authorities also warned of mountain torrents that could pose challenges.

Beijing had thunder showers with gusts and hail on Sunday night, triggering a yellow alert－the third-highest level in the four-tiered warning system－from the municipal meteorological station.

"With the roaring thunder, I was a little scared," said Chen Lei, a resident in Beijing.

But he added "it makes us feel safe to see no flooding around my community, and the water on the ground drained quickly, so traffic was not affected.

"With more rains coming, I hope the capital can do better," he added.

In fact, the quick drainage of the torrential rains can be attributed to various measures that had been undertaken.

For example, the Beijing Drainage Group responded quickly to the storm on Sunday night, sending about 2,500 workers to remove water to ensure clear roads and transportation.

Torrential rains are forecast to start again on Tuesday by the local weather authority.

As many areas in southern China have endured floods in the past month, cities and provinces in the north have been preparing for any risks.