Affected by low water inflow rates from the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, the water level in the Three Gorges Reservoir has continued to decline since the start of December, falling to 171.92 metres on 10 January.

In the 10 days up to 12 January, the water level dropped by about 1.3 metres.

Marine departments have strengthened patrol and inspection to ensure the safety of passing ships.