China is facing a spring drought caused by the second warmest
winter it has ever had over the past 40 years.
The State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters issued an
emergent circular recently calling for drought fighting this
year.
It
has rained or snowed less in most part of China since the end of
last year, says the circular. Rivers and lakes received less water.
Water conservancy projects impounded insufficient water. The
groundwater level has declined, leading to shortage of water for
living and production in some places.
The drought has been spreading in northeast China, north China,
northwest China, and a majority of the Yellow River, Huaihe River,
and Yangtze River drainage basins, says the Headquarters in the
circular.
According to meteorological forecast, the drought would be
continuing in most part of the country. It would be a tough task to
guarantee the spring sowing while fighting against the drought,
says the circular.
The Headquarters asked places which are facing serious shortage of
water to be prepared for a long-term drought resisting.
Cities that are in water deficit should work out emergent water
supply plans in advance and explore new water resources if
necessary, says the circular.
(China
Daily March 5, 2002)