BEIJING, July 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang on Monday urged local authorities to intensify efforts of flood control and disaster relief, as floods have wrecked havoc in many parts of the country.

Wang, who is also the general director of the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters, said at a conference that local authorities should have a clear understanding of the urgency of flood control at present.

Torrential rain that started sweeping across the country from July 7 has caused floods and landslides, resulting in deaths in many parts of the country.

Wang said local governments must put people's lives in the first place, screen for weak links in flood control and relief efforts to minimize the losses from the disasters.

He also called for efforts to provide weather forecast and early warning, prepare personnel and materials for disaster relief and to ensure the safety of major rivers, lakes and reservoirs during floods.