The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) on Wednesday warned that rain would hit some parts of the country's prolific grain producing areas as of Thursday.

The CMA said the rain would bring negative influence to harvests in the southern part of Gansu, the northern part of Shaanxi, southwest Shanxi, southern Shandong, the northern part of Jiangsu and Henan.

Thunderstorms and heavy wind were also expected to cause the dislodging of wheat in the areas.

The CMA warned related departments in the areas to make proper preparation for the harvests, and to prevent grain from going moldy.

Farmers should also avoid planting and reaping in thunderstorm weather for safety considerations, the CMA said.

(Xinhua News Agency June 5, 2008)