China's water control officials are getting prepared to battle possible flooding as heavy rain is forecast across the country's eastern and central areas.

Heavy rain or rainstorms are forecast for the eastern and central areas over the next three days, China Meteorological Administration said on Tuesday. Some regions will be hit by the heaviest rainfall since the start of this year.

Henan,Anhuiand parts ofHubei,JiangxiandZhejiangprovinces will experience heavy rain or rainstorms during the period. Some of these regions will see rainfall amounting to more than 100 millimeters.

Meteorological and water resources departments at all levels should closely monitor the situation, enhance forecasts and update the forecast figures in a timely fashion, E Jingping, Water Resources vice minister, said on Tuesday.

Local governments and departments concerned were required to prioritize people's safety and ensure the security of reservoirs and hydropower stations, E said.

(Xinhua News Agency April 9, 2008)