The Harbin section of the Songhua River in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province expects to meet its first flood peak Wednesday.

The flood peak is to reach 117.2 meters by Wednesday, only 0.9 meter below the warning line. It will approach the record water level of 117.35 meters recorded in 2003, according to the provincial water control department.

An analysis of the provincial hydrologic bureau showed the flood peak is led by continuous rainfall in areas around Qiqihar City and floodwater release at reservoirs on the upper reaches of the Songhua River.

The provincial flood control and prevention department has made full preparations to cope with the flood peak.
 
(Xinhua News Agency July 26, 2005)