Zhengzhou: The Chinese central city of Zhengzhou has halted all outdoor work citywide in response to a high-level flood emergency alert, as reported by Global Times. The emergency response level in Henan province was elevated from Level IV to Level III on Thursday due to intense rainfall, prompting the city to enforce strict measures including the suspension of production, business, classes, transportation, and outdoor activities.
According to Anadolu Agency, Zhengzhou's Zhongyuan district has already experienced over 90 millimeters (nearly 3.54 inches) of rain, with more severe weather predicted, including thunderstorms and strong winds. The prolonged and intense rainfall, combined with previous storms, has significantly increased the risk of disasters, as noted by the Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters.
Authorities have been instructed to follow early warning procedures, closely monitor vulnerable areas such as mountain torrents, geological hazard zones, and small reservoirs, and effectively manage urban waterlogging and infrastructure. Emergency teams are on high alert to identify, report, and mitigate risks to ensure the safety of residents and minimize potential damage.
In a related development, China's National Commission for Disaster Prevention has initiated a Level-IV emergency response in Inner Mongolia due to severe flooding, as per state-run Xinhua News. The Ministry of Emergency Management has dispatched a special team to aid local relief efforts, focusing on addressing basic needs for affected residents.
Additionally, the ministry, in collaboration with the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration, has distributed 47,400 units of relief supplies, including tents, beds, blankets, and winter clothing, to support disaster rescue and relocation operations in the region. The National Development and Reform Commission has allocated 80 million yuan (approximately $11.21 million) to aid recovery efforts in Inner Mongolia, prioritizing the restoration of infrastructure such as water systems, transport, schools, and public services to facilitate the return to normalcy for affected communities.