Central China's Henan launches highest-level alert for rains

Central China's Henan Province upgraded its warning for torrential rain to the highest-level red alert on Wednesday as downpours continue to batter large swathes of the province.

The provincial meteorological observatory reported widespread heavy rain is expected across areas north of the Huaihe River on Thursday.

Henan upgraded its flood emergency response to Level 2, urging authorities to intensify disaster prevention, evacuate residents in high-risk areas, and ensure public safety. Besides, authorities have suspended classes, business operations, and non-essential outdoor activities in the affected areas.