People get on the bus at a flooded section of the Xietu Road in Shanghai, China, on July 30, 2009. [Xinhua]

The heaviest rains in 70 years hit China's largest city, Shanghai, on Thursday, flooding 3,000 households and more than 70 roads.

Rainfall reached 80 to 140 mm in most areas of the city. The water was 10 to 30 cm deep on the roads and 5 to 10 cm in households in Luwan, Huangpu, Zhabei and Jinshan districts.

Some vehicles were damaged by fallen tree branches, according to the municipal headquarters of flood control.

More than 500 workers are clearing away the water.

People get on the bus at a flooded section of the Xietu Road in Shanghai, China, on July 30, 2009. [Xinhua]