Incessant rain floods rivers, disrupts traffic in northeast China

HARBIN -- Continuous downpours have flooded several rivers and disrupted traffic in the Greater Khingan Range, Northeast China's Heilongjiang province, the provincial center for hydrology and water resources said Saturday.

As of 8 am Saturday, the water level of Mohe station in the main stream of Heilong River exceeded the warning level by 0.55 meters, and the water levels of all stations in the main stream of the Heilong River showed an upward trend.

The center at 11 am Saturday issued a red alert for floods for the Guqigu section of Huma River. At present, the water level is still on the rise.

The incessant rain has destroyed bridges on several highways, interrupted traffic and flooded houses, according to the department in charge of traffic control in the region.

Tahe County, one of the worst-hit areas, has dispatched 1,161 personnel to take part in flood control and emergency rescue operation and help transfer local residents to safety.

The Greater Khingan Range is China's largest state-owned forest farm in terms of area, dotted with forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It serves as an important ecological barrier in northern China.