On July 11, Beijing is forecast to experience heavy rain, with torrential downpours in some areas. The prolonged rainfall is expected to bring significant accumulated precipitation, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong wind gusts. Short bursts of intense rainfall are also possible at times. The Beijing Meteorological Observatory has issued an orange alert for rainstorm and a yellow alert for thunderstorm—please take necessary precautions.

In addition, according to the latest meteorological data, another spell of significant rainfall is expected around July 13. Please follow updates and warnings, and take care to guard against lightning and rain when going outdoors. Temperature-wise, daytime highs on July 13 and July 14 will drop to around 28°C—adjust your clothing accordingly as the weather changes.

With this upcoming heavy rain, here is your safety guide based on various scenarios!

For pedestrians: never wade blindly through water

- When holding an umbrella, do not let it block your view; always look both ways before crossing the street.

- Make yourself "visible"—wear a raincoat and use a backpack with reflective strips when going out on rainy nights.

- If rain intensifies and water accumulates on roads, seek shelter nearby.

- Floodwater may hide missing manhole covers, potholes, and other hazards—never wade in blindly.

- Avoid high-risk spots such as underpasses, sunken tunnels, and low-lying sections.

- Streetlight poles, distribution boxes, and outdoor cables may leak electricity when exposed to water—beware of electric shock.

- Stay away from trees, billboards, construction fences, and other objects prone to toppling; do not linger under high-rise buildings.

For cyclists: choose a well-fitting raincoat

- In case of heavy rain or gales, stop your journey and take shelter in a sturdy building.

- If you must go out, reduce your speed, especially when turning.

- Wear a safety helmet, choose a snug raincoat and fasten it securely; never use an umbrella or install a canopy to your bike.

- Ride slowly on the right side of the road—do not cut in, overtake, or ride alongside motor vehicles.

- Manhole covers, paving stones, and other surfaces can become slippery when wet—avoid these areas while cycling.

For drivers: if trapped, escape decisively

- Turn on low-beam headlights and position lights, drive at low speed, and increase your following distance. 

- Avoid sudden acceleration, hard braking, or sharp turns.

- If water reaches the bumper or two-thirds of the tire height, try to take an alternative route.

- Watch out for waves caused by oncoming large vehicles, which can push water up to a dangerous height.

- If trapped in floodwater, immediately unlock doors and evacuate. If doors and windows cannot be opened, use a safety hammer to strike the edge of the window, or use the metal rod of a headrest to pry and break the glass.

At home: take precautions in advance

- Regularly participate in community flood drills, stockpile emergency supplies, and familiarize yourself with nearby shelters and evacuation routes.

- Minimize unnecessary outings and park your vehicle on higher ground in advance.

- Residents in low-lying areas should set up flood barriers such as retaining boards and sandbags at doorways, and move valuables to higher places indoors.

- If floodwater starts to enter the room, immediately cut off the power supply and turn off the gas valve. If water continues to rise, evacuate to a safe area in an orderly manner.

- Avoid skin contact with floodwater—wear waterproof boots and gloves, and promptly disinfect any exposed body parts afterward.

For camping & outings: stay away from rivers

- Evaluate the geographic and weather conditions of your destination in advance and keep track of weather warnings.

- When choosing a campsite, avoid riverbanks, areas downstream of reservoirs, steep slopes, and other flood-prone zones; do not set up tents on riverbanks or stream beds, and watch for flash floods and sudden water level rises.

- Choose well-equipped official campsites whenever possible—do not follow the trend of trying "unregulated wild camping".

- In case of heavy rain, immediately stop outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.

- Learn to recognize warning signs: sudden murky stream water, a sharp increase or sudden drop in water flow, the sound of rocks colliding in gullies, new cracks on slopes, or trees leaning abnormally.

- If a flood or landslide occurs, run to higher ground on any side perpendicular to the direction of the water flow or landslide; discard heavy items so you can move faster with light gear.

Health precautions: 

- Wash your hands promptly after returning from outdoors.

- Ensure drinking water safety—do not drink untreated water, nor water from unknown or contaminated sources.

- Protect food from contamination; refrigerate leftovers, reheat them thoroughly before eating, and do not consume unwashed fruit, moldy food, or contaminated food.

- Clean and disinfect utensils exposed to rainwater promptly.

- When outdoors, take precautions against mosquito bites—wear long-sleeved clothing or apply insect repellent to exposed skin.

- Keep indoor spaces and living areas well-ventilated, and promptly clear away rainwater and garbage around the premises.

- Maintain a healthy lifestyle and monitor your health regularly.

Every safety precaution matters. Share this guide with your family and friends to get through the flood season safely together!

(Sources: Beijing Business Today, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Hebei Daily App)