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Nearly 700 flights cancelled, schools closed as Beijing hit by storm
Beijing: Nearly 700 flights were cancelled in Beijing and schools were shut on Monday amid torrential downpours and gale-force winds.
Following the storm, city authorities issued warnings to residents to stay home. Rainstorms has hit Beijing and is considered the biggest storm this year.
As much as 100 mm of rain is predicted through the day in some areas, and aviation tracker VariFlight recorded some 700 flights cancelled at the city's two airports.
Moreover, a landslide was recorded Beijing’s northern districts, with state broadcaster CCTV showing pictures of a road blocked by fallen rocks.
According to state TV, heavy rain was holding up efforts to clear the road.
Along schools, popular attractions including a part of the Great Wall were also shut, with some districts suspending rural homestays.
Some of Beijing's automatic driving trains will be operated manually instead, state media said.
Furthermore, weather authorities have warned of floods in 14 rivers, including tributaries in Sichuan and Shaanxi.
Reportedly, floods are common during China's rainy season.
Last year in August, higher water levels washed away roads, forcing tens of thousands from their homes.