BEIJING, June 8 (Xinhua) -- Heavy downpours have hit multiple provinces in southern China, prompting the launch of flood-control measures to deal with potential risks and ensure the annual national college entrance exam is conducted smoothly.
On Monday, Fujian Province activated a Level-IV flood control emergency response, as some areas are forecast to receive up to 200 mm of precipitation within 24 hours. Local authorities have ordered evacuations from high-risk areas and inspections of exam venues.
Guangdong Province activated a Level-IV flood control emergency response on Monday. As continuous heavy rain is expected to heighten the risks of flooding and geological disasters, local authorities have placed education, transportation, power supply, public security and fire departments on standby. Emergency response teams have been stationed at key exam venues, urban flood-prone areas and critical power facilities.
In southwest China's Chongqing, torrential rain lashed western and southeastern areas from Sunday morning to Monday morning, pushing water levels at nine local rivers above warning marks. Local authorities have launched an emergency response plan, with personnel dispatched to eliminate road safety risks and offer emergency services near exam sites. ■
