BEIJING, May 3 -- Southern parts of China are expected to see more rainfall than usual this month, according to the National Climate Center.

Precipitation in many areas in this part of China will be 20 percent to 50 percent higher than for the same period in average years, and this may lead to more floods in these areas, according to the center.

Data showed that average precipitation in China stood at 61.1 millimeters in April this year -- 51.8 percent higher than the overall average and the second highest level since 1961.

In early May, the flood control situation in the middle and lower reaches of the Pearl River Basin, the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River Basin, and especially the regions south of the Yangtze River, remained severe, the center said.

It called for efforts to prevent secondary disasters such as mountain torrents, landslides, and mudslides that could be caused by periodic heavy rainfall, as well as efforts to counter possible urban and rural waterlogging.

Tourists visiting relevant areas are advised to remain vigilant by closely monitoring local weather forecasts and taking safety precautions.