Several billion yuan will be allocated in advance from central budget reserve funds to aid regions severely hit by floods, and greater support will be provided depending on the severity of the actual situation, Premier Li Keqiang said.

Premier Li made the remarks while chairing a teleconference on flood control and prevention, emergency rescue and disaster relief at the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters on the morning of July 26.

The Premier expressed deep sadness over the recent tragic casualties caused by extreme heavy rainfall in Henan province and other regions, extending profound condolence to the deceased, as well as sympathy to the injured and the victims’ families.

He urged paying pensions to families of the deceased as soon as possible and helping meet the basic needs of displaced people in temporary settlements.

Apart from central support, local governments should also earmark funds for the effort, and private donations should be used with openness and transparency, the Premier said.