BEIJING: (Bernama-Xinhua) An orange-level rainstorm alert was issued by the Beijing meteorological observatory at 1.30 pm on Thursday, the first such warning released in the city since the 2026 flood season began, reported Xinhua.
At the same time, the Beijing flood control office activated a Level-II flood control emergency response.
The alert forecasts heavy rainfall across the city from 2.00 pm on Friday to 8.00 am on Sunday, with torrential rains expected in districts including Huairou, Miyun, Pinggu, Shunyi and Fangshan.
Hourly precipitation in some areas is expected to exceed 70 millimetres (mm), while cumulative rainfall over 24 hours could reach more than 150 mm.
The alert warns of high meteorological risks in mountainous and hilly areas, as well as waterlogging in low-lying areas. Residents are urged to take precautions.
Flood control authorities have advised the public to minimise outdoor activities, stay tuned to updated weather alerts and advisory information, and to use public transportation.
Enterprises and public institutions are encouraged to adopt flexible work arrangements or stagger commuting hours.
Schools should suspend classes, in-person training and field teaching activities based on actual conditions.
The public has been warned against visiting scenic spots involving mountains or waterways, underground commercial facilities, or areas prone to geological hazards, and advised to stay away from rivers and channels.
According to the alert, all outdoor activities, operations and construction work should be suspended.
China has a four-tier weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. - Bernama-Xinhua
