Capital residents advised to be vigilant as heavy rain nears

Asked what worries him most during the flood season, Huo Fenglin, an official in charge of flood control and drought relief at the Beijing Water Authority, said mountain torrents in Beijing is the most challenging problem.

"It's very difficult to forecast flooding in mountainous areas because it comes very quickly in a short period of time with a large amount of rainfall, and the geological conditions in the surrounding mountain areas in Beijing are not good for flood drainage," he said.

To prevent any loss of property and human life caused by mountain floods, the municipal water authority has organized 1,100 people to improve monitoring at 427 ravines and gullies that might flood when it rains heavily in Beijing.

The towns and villages where those ravines and gullies are located have held drills for the local residents to practice their escape routes. They should be familiar with where to go and how to get there as fast as possible, according to the standard of the authority.

Meanwhile, the city has set up a cooperative mechanism for experts and local districts, especially suburban areas.

The city has selected 55 experts from a hydrometric administration and two research institutions under the Beijing Water Authority to provide technology support for 17 districts in the city, which has ensured the capability of flood monitoring and prediction, emergency rescue work and related supplies in each district.

"It's the first such mechanism in China to match experts with every local district to ensure safety and a swift emergency response during the flood season," Huo said. "The experts will be particularly familiar with the district he or she is responsible for and would provide accurate guidance when professional suggestions are needed."

The COVID-19 epidemic has created obstacles to the flood prevention work this year. Due to the prevention and control measures, some regular checks will take longer due to more procedures.

"The most important task is to ensure the safety of people and property in the capital during the flood season for the water authority," Huo said. "Thus, no matter how complicated it can be, we will work closely with experts and the local administrations to prevent any damages it might bring."