China Braces for Critical Period of Flood Control and Extreme Weather
As China enters its critical period of “seven downs and eight ups” flood control, the country is facing the simultaneous challenges of regional floods, droughts, high temperatures, and heatwaves. With this in mind, authorities are advising citizens to closely monitor rivers, lakes, and reservoirs to ensure their safety during flood seasons.
The main flood season has already begun in the seven major river basins, including the Yangtze River, Yellow River, Huaihe River, and Pearl River. Measures such as forecasting, early warning systems, project scheduling, and emergency rescue operations have been put in place to ensure the safety of the affected regions. However, recent forecasts indicate that moderate to heavy rain, as well as localized heavy rain, will occur in the Yangtze River Basin from west to east between July 11 and 16. The Minjiang River, Tuojiang River, and Jialing River are also expected to experience flooding during this period.
The Huaihe River Basin, which is currently entering its rainy season, has issued a list of 30 tasks to address flooding during the main flood season. Since the beginning of the flood season in March, the country has experienced frequent floods in small and medium-sized rivers, with 234 rivers in 18 provinces surpassing warning levels due to heavy rainfall events. The floods have posed challenges to flood control efforts as they have occurred within a relatively concentrated period of time.
While the flood situation in major rivers is generally stable, the water levels in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, Dongting Lake, and Poyang Lake are lower than normal. The water levels in the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River are also below average. Authorities have emphasized the importance of not underestimating the potential impact of flooding in these areas due to the large populations and crucial infrastructures surrounding major rivers.
Looking ahead, forecasts indicate that extreme weather events, such as regional floods, droughts, and high-temperature heatwaves, may become more severe from July to August. Large floods may occur in several river basins, including the Songhua River, middle reaches of Heilongjiang, Liaohe Hunhe Taizi River, Huaihe River, Yishusi, lower reaches of the Yangtze River, Chuhe River, Qingyi River, Shuiyang River, Taihu Lake, and Qiantang River. Additionally, droughts are expected in central and western Inner Mongolia, northern central Shaanxi, and Shanxi, while periodic high-temperature heatwaves are likely in North China, southern central China, southwest, and northeast regions.
To address these challenges, officials stated the need for coordinated efforts in flood control and drought resistance. Precise policies and the use of water conservancy projects are crucial in blocking floods, cutting peaks, and storing water to ensure a reliable water supply. Authorities also emphasized the importance of vigilance and preparedness as droughts and floods can quickly change.
To protect rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, authorities are keeping a close eye on weak links and strengthening flood control measures. Small and medium-sized rivers are particularly vulnerable due to their rapid confluence and fluctuating water levels. The Ministry of Water Resources has formulated an overall plan for the management of small and medium-sized rivers across the country and will carry out systematic management of 881 rivers this year. Ensuring the safety of reservoirs is equally important, as some are in disrepair or considered dangerous. Dangerous reservoirs will be operated empty during the main flood season, and strict supervision and rectification measures are being implemented.
In order to improve flood forecasting, authorities have increased the use of technology and citizen engagement. Accurate rain forecasts and timely early warnings are crucial in winning the initiative in flood control. Flood forecasts have been updated 77,700 times on the “Four Forecast” platform for flood and drought disaster prevention in the Pearl River Basin, signaling the commitment to ensure the public’s safety.
As the critical period of flood control and extreme weather approaches, China remains vigilant and prepared to tackle the challenges ahead.