The State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters Wednesday reported a drastic rise in water levels at the upper and middle reaches of the Huaihe River in east China because of heavy rainfall in the region.

As of 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, the flood crest in Xixian County in the upper reaches of the Huaihe had reached 41.63 m, 0.13 m above the danger line. As of 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, the water level at the Wangjiaba hydraulic station stood at 29.03 m, 0.03 m above the danger line.

Since June 26, the Huaihe River valley has been hit by continuous rainstorms, and some areas have even experienced torrential rains.

The State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters on Tuesday issued an urgent advisory to all provinces along the Huaihe, one of the country's major rivers, urging close monitoring of the flood situation, more accurate weather forecast, more effective flood control measures, and more frequent patrols on the river's embankments.

To date, no major damages have occurred along the river's flood-control embankments.

However, the Huaihe River valley is expected to see continuous rains for the next three days, according to the local forecast. Some areas may even see torrential rains. Flood control preparations along the river are in full swing.

(Xinhua News Agency July 2, 2003)