The Mongolian Meteorological Institute has issued a warning about the dangerously high water levels  in most rivers in the western and central parts of the country due to the recent heavy rainfall. The water level of rivers such as the Balj, Onon, Kherlen and Kharkhiraa has risen by 15-75 cm from the normal summer levels. To make matters worse, more heavy rain is expected.

During summer in rural areas, Mongolian herders often live along the  river basins and on the slopes of mountain valleys and therefore face high flood risks. Furthermore, there has been an increase in local and foreign tourists travelling across Mongolia in the summer time.