The flood control situation along the middle Yangtze River has changed due to shifts in the relationship between the river and Dongting Lake. The amount of water diverted to the lake has decreased over time, leading to increased discharge in the Jingjiang River. This has caused higher water levels and more sedimentation in certain areas, making flood control more challenging. In 1998, the flood level from Shashi to Wuhan was significantly affected by these changes.