BEIJING, July 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities will provide financial support to people who have been severely affected by floods or waterlogging, as heavy rainfall has lashed large parts of southern China since June.

Local authorities should ensure the basic livelihoods of affected people experiencing difficulties to prevent them from falling into or back into poverty because of such disasters, said a circular issued by the Ministry of Civil Affairs.

Allowances and temporary assistance should be put in place for them, said the document, adding that service hotlines will be set up.

The circular also urged local authorities to clear up hidden dangers in civil affairs facilities, local geological environments, as well as water supply systems.

Local authorities should also improve their emergency response plans to avoid further casualties, said the circular.

It also stressed the need to care for orphans, the left-behind elderly, children, and people with disabilities.