China warns of floods, mudslides in west as heavy downpours predicted

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Source: CCTV.com | 06-18-2007 13:41

The Meteorological Administration is warning of floods and landslides in China's western region. This, after heavy rains and floods lashed the country's south and east for the past couple of weeks.

On Sunday, officials predict heavy downpours in the west. It said although the rains could relieve drought in the often arid northwest, they could also trigger flooding, landslides and mudslides as the ecosystem in the region is weak. Local governments have been urged to strengthen flood response work.

Official figures report that 128 people have been killed by floods this year, with another twenty four missing. Direct economic losses are estimated at nearly nine billion yuan.

Editor:Du Xiaodan