The Three Gorges dam in southern China faces a major test as torrential rain swells rivers in the region, according to reports from state media.

China's state run broadcaster, China Central Television (CCTV), reported on Tuesday that the water level at the giant reservoir had reached 150, 25 meters short of its maximum capacity. The report added that the level is expected to reach 165 metres.

CCTV said the peak flow of water in the Yangtze River - China's longest - was higher than those recorded in 1998, when devastating floods killed over 4,000 people and forced some 18 million to relocate.

Much of southern China has been suffering flooding and landslides after weeks of torrential downpours and thousands of people have been evacuated along the Yangtze and its tributaries as water flooded cities and villages alike.

At least 146 people have died since the start of this month as a result of the rains, and another 40 are missing.