Shanghai ramps up flood-prevention measures

Shanghai will intensify inspections and introduce smart technology to prevent floods and falling hazards during the flood season this year.

The city's flood season, which will begin in June and last till September, is expected to bring dense precipitation, stronger typhoons, more high-temperature days and convective weather, according to Dong Rong, director of Shanghai Meteorological Service, during a news conference on Wednesday.

The total amount of precipitation during the upcoming season is estimated to be between 600 mm to 850 mm. The maximum daily precipitation will reach over 150 mm, especially in low-lying areas including Songjiang and Qingpu districts.

Meanwhile, the annual "Plum Rain Season" - a period of rainy days with high humidity and high temperatures - is expected to last from mid-June to mid-July, slightly longer than usual. The average temperature during this period is expected to be 27 C, with 11 to 21 days above 35 C and three to seven days over 37 C.

The city is also bracing itself for the arrival of two to three powerful typhoons by developing two scenarios on an online platform that would help it to minimize risks of falling objects and floods.

This technology is able to create early warnings by analyzing data and monitoring areas with safety hazards during typhoon and floods. The scenarios are expected to be completed in June.

Xu Jian, deputy commander of the municipal flood and typhoon control office, said an upgraded central flood and typhoon control command system will be put into operation during the season, providing real-time weather monitoring and early warning services.

Along with intelligent supervision, regular inspection has also been reinforced in major regions, strengthen the screening of outdoor advertisements, shop signs and lighting fixtures.