China's flood control authority on Thursday initiated a Level III emergency response, up from Wednesday's Level IV, to cope with possible flooding as typhoon Kai-Tak approaches the country's southern regions.

Local governments should closely monitor Kai-Tak, issue warnings in a timely manner and take all measures to ensure people's safety, said the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters.

Kai-Tak is forecast to make landfall in coastal regions of Guangdong Province at noon or during the morning of Friday, bringing heavy rain and gales to the country's southern parts, according to the China Meteorological Administration (CMA).

The flood control authority has asked local governments to call ships back to harbor, reinforce outdoor facilities, relocate fishermen and marine staff and strengthen inspections on reservoirs and dikes to prevent breaches.

It said the headquarters has dispatched three working groups to Guangdong, Guangxi and Hainan to help coordinate flood relief efforts.

Also on Thursday, Chinese marine environment authorities upgraded the alert on sea waves and storm surges to the highest level of red for typhoon Kai-Tak.