Heat wave to linger in Central China

BEIJING -?A heat wave will sweep China's central regions in the coming week, while rains are forecast for the south, the meteorological authority said Tuesday.

The Huanghuai and Jianghuai plains, regions along lower reaches of the Han river, and parts of the north should expect temperatures as high as 39 degrees Celsius over the next few days, according to a statement on the National Meteorological Center website.

Experts warned that persistent high temperatures will likely have an adverse impact on crops.

The center also forecast heavy rain, accompanied by strong wind, for southern and southwestern regions over the next week.

Local authorities are advised to reinforce agricultural facilities and improve farmland drainage to prevent possible natural disasters.