Flood season's widest range of precipitation yet to hit northern China

A resident ride a motorcycle on a flooded road in Tianjin, north China, July 20, 2016. Tianjin was battered by torrential rain on July 20 and local meteorological bureau has issued a yellow alert for a rainstorm. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

From July 18 to 19, many places in northern China received heavy rainfall. China's Central Meteorological Observatory updated its rainstorm warning to the orange level at 10 a.m. on July 19, and the China Meteorological Administration raised its emergency response level from four to three. From July 19 to 20, central and southern parts of northern China, most of the Huang-Huai area, the central part of Hubei province and the northwest part of Hunan province have experienced severe rainstorms.

The rain band is now predicted to move eastward and extend to the northeast from July 20 to 21. Most of northern China will continue to receive heavy rainfall. According to the Central Meteorological Observatory, this is the widest range of precipitation northern China has seen so far this flood season. 

Ma Xuekuan, chief meteorologist with the Central Meteorological Observatory, explained that rainfall at this time of year is typically both wide-ranging and intense. Because of the climate and geographical differences between China’s north and south, precipitation in the north is less severe than in the south, but weather-related financial losses can be serious in both regions. 

Authorities advise the residents of rain-affected areas to take strict precautions against secondary disasters caused by heavy rainfall, such as torrents, landslides and debris flow. These precautions are especially important in areas near Taihang and Tongbai Mountains. Meanwhile, urban residents should pay extra attention to proper drainage.