A guide to help local authorities cope with the impact of the El Nino weather phenomenon was released by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs on Friday. 

It outlines scientific measures to prevent and reduce possible damage to crops during winter and spring. 

According to the ministry, many regions in China are expected to experience frequent extreme weather events due to the combined impact of a moderate El Nino and global climate change. 

It is important to effectively alleviate the impact of the disasters on crops to ensure a summer harvest, the ministry said. 

The guide outlines the various types of natural disasters that crops in different regions may encounter, such as damage from freezing conditions, and provides targeted advice for disaster prevention, mitigation and relief. 

For example, for winter wheat in northern China that may suffer from drought, it suggests early inspection and maintenance of irrigation systems. 

If drought occurs, limited water resources can be used for concentrated irrigation to ensure the survival of seedlings, it says. 

The guide also requires local authorities to strengthen monitoring and early warnings of disasters, prepare enough agricultural material and equipment, and pool efforts to prevent and alleviate disasters.