Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu on Friday urged local governments to prepare for floods and droughts and to intensify relief work.

Hui warned of a strong possibility of severe flooding and drought this year, saying that he is "not optimistic" about the situation in terms of current prevention efforts.

Hui ordered local authorities to form a prevention plan and a team. He also told officials to gather necessary materials and closely monitor trends with regards to rain, flood, wind and drought.

They should also be ready to evacuate residents in regions vulnerable to floods, Hui said.

Furthermore, greater efforts should be made to ensure the continued operation of major reservoirs and to guarantee the supply of drinking water for urban and rural residents, Hui added.