Beijing is increasing safety inspections related to the predicted heavy rainfall in the capital to avoid a repeat of the flooding disaster during a storm last year that claimed dozens of lives.
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Tens of thousands of rescue personnel are making inspections in Beijing, especially around the mountainous areas in the suburbs and overpasses downtown.
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The 2012 storm, the city's worst rainfall in 61 years, affected millions of people in the capital, resulting in economic losses of up to 10 billion yuan ($1.63 billion) and forcing thousands to evacuate their homes, the municipal government said.
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Beijing Drainage Group Co Ltd said the capital is well prepared for flood season this year, with drainage capacity at 72 overpasses updated.
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In the event of an extraordinary rainstorm, about 3,000 cubic meters of water will be pumped out of flood-prone areas. About 900 cubic meters of water will be pumped during a moderate downpour.
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Monitors are in place at low-lying areas beneath ground level, including underpasses. Warning signs on most underpasses vulnerable to flooding have been installed to indicate the water levels there.
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The city also has started upgrading its drainage system, especially in some overpasses and low-lying areas.
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Deep water at 52 sites in downtown Beijing resulted in economic losses and resulted in deaths in the 2012 storm.
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A 34-year-old man drowned in a stranded car beneath the Guangqumen overpass on the East Second Ring Road after flooding submerged the area due to the poor drainage system.
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The Beijing Water Authority said average rainfall from 8 pm Sunday to 11 am Monday throughout the city hit 45.9 millimeters, and has had little effect on the capital.
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Beijing's Miyun district and Huairou district have seen the most rainfall in Beijing this flood season, with 170 millimeters.
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Even if the rainfall slows down after Monday afternoon, the BWA still cautions the public to avoid mountainous areas in case of landslides.