国内英语新闻:855 evacuated following Beijing torrential rain

BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- A total of 855 residents were evacuated after thunderstorms hit Beijing on Sunday afternoon, said the city's flood control office.

More than 400 households, mostly in the suburban Miyun and Mentougou districts, were evacuated, as the maximum rainfall reached 55.6 mm from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, the office said in a statement.

More than 180 tourist attractions were closed, said the statement.

Beijing issued yellow alerts on thunder and geological disaster risks at 1 p.m., and warned people to stay away from waterways and mountainous areas.

According to the weather forecast department, thunderstorm is also expected in the next few days.