People in China's southern province of Guangdong are rushing to store fresh water, following a local government warning of a salty tide. Many are flocking to buy mineral water at local markets, while others are waiting in line to collect from hillside fountains. Meanwhile, relevant authorities are also stepping up efforts to ensure drinking water supplies.

A combination of factors, nature and water pollution are forcing water from the sea into the rivers, and causing the saltiest tide since autumn. Scientists say the tide started moving on Tuesday and will last for eight days.

In Zhuhai city, local reservoirs hold enough pure drinking water for 20 days. But that time frame has increased, after the relevant authorities added water that has an acceptable salt levels.

Also, local government has cut fresh water supplies to businesses like car washes and bathhouses for one week.

Water from reservoirs throughout the province is being carted to the cities of Guangzhou, Huizhou, Dongguan and Shenzhen.

The salt tide is also causing concern in Hong Kong and Macao. But so far, it hasn't effected the Dongjiang River, which also supplies water to special administrative regions.

But the relevant authorities are still cautious. The river's water quality is being constantly monitored and about 2.5 million cubic meters of water has been stored in the Zhuxiandong reservoir, which also supplies Macao.

The reservoir should ensure drinking water for Macao citizens to Thursday next week.

Editor: Yan