President Xi Jinping has called for strengthened efforts to tackle disasters related to low temperatures, rain, snow and freezing, in order to ensure a safe and warm winter for the people.
Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in an instruction.
He said that heavy rain and snow have occurred in multiple regions of the country, impacting the electricity supply, traffic, transport and people's work and life.
As central and eastern parts of China will experience a strong cold wave, posing high risks of disasters and serious challenges in terms of disaster prevention and response, Xi demanded that a high level of importance must be attached to this matter.
Xi urged the close monitoring and strengthened analysis of changes in the weather, as well as the timely issuance of alerts and forecasts.
Patrols should be strengthened to ensure safe and smooth traffic and the supply of electricity, Xi said, calling for improved capacity to supply coal, electricity, oil and natural gas.
Efforts should be strengthened to guarantee the supply of goods key to people's daily lives and stabilize their prices, Xi added.
He required related departments and local authorities to step up to their responsibilities, specify prevention measures and improve emergency response plans.
They should also make careful assessments to lower risks and hazards, and do all they can to tackle emergencies, Xi said.