The Chinese capital has issued its highest-level flood warning as forecasters predict an intense deluge that could drop nearly a third of the city’s annual rainfall in a matter of hours. Authorities have urged residents in six key districts to stay indoors and prepare for severe flooding and potential landslides.

The top-level red alert was declared for the hilly districts of Mentougou, Fangshan, Fengtai, Shijingshan, Huairou, and Changping. These areas, known for their mountainous terrain, are especially vulnerable to rapid water runoff and flash floods. Officials expect rainfall to reach up to 200 millimeters within six hours, a volume equal to almost one-third of Beijing’s average annual precipitation of 600 millimeters.

This alert comes just days after devastating floods in late July killed at least 44 people in the city, many of whom were residents of a nursing home in Miyun district. That tragedy, which shocked the nation, has led to increased scrutiny over Beijing’s preparedness for extreme weather events. Authorities admitted shortfalls in emergency planning during that incident and have pledged stronger coordination and quicker response in light of the current threat.

Beijing’s geographical layout, surrounded by mountains to the west and north, makes it prone to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. In 2012, the city experienced its worst modern flooding disaster, which resulted in 79 deaths, most occurring in Fangshan district where water levels reportedly surged over a meter in minutes.

Residents in the affected districts have been told to avoid all non-essential travel. Emergency services are on high alert, and rescue equipment has been deployed in vulnerable zones. Schools and construction sites remain closed, and tourism activities in flood-prone areas have been suspended.

Elsewhere in China, related storm systems have also caused destruction. In Guangdong province, five people were killed in flash floods, prompting a large-scale emergency rescue involving over 1,300 personnel. Northern and western provinces, including Hebei and Shanxi, have also seen widespread flooding this summer, leading to more than 30 deaths and significant displacement.

With meteorologists warning that the most intense rainfall is yet to come, Beijing's disaster response agencies are preparing for further evacuations and infrastructure challenges. Power outages, transportation disruptions, and potential dam overflow scenarios are all under close watch.

The capital remains on edge, bracing for what may become one of the most significant weather emergencies since the 2012 catastrophe. Authorities are urging the public to monitor official channels closely, follow safety instructions, and remain indoors unless absolutely necessary.