Call for Action as Drought Worsens

North Korea has called for a nationwide response to mitigate loss as drought conditions worsen across the country.

In a piece entitled, “Let’s Thoroughly Guard Against Drought
Damage,” state media outlet the Rodong Sinmun urged that all efforts be channeled
into preventing further damage.

“All areas are suffering.  The western area in particular is having its
worst drought in decades, which is having an extremely detrimental impact on farms,”
the piece said.

According to the article, general food security is now a serious concern, as “whether
or not this year’s grain production goals will be met or not depends largely on
preventing [further damage].  There is no
time to lose.”

Further requirements include “active utilization of
underground water facilities and the mobilization of lift pumping equipment,” the piece went on.

Meanwhile, Chosun Central News Agency [KCNA] announced
Friday that average rainfall from mid-February until the end of April totaled only 23.5mm,
the lowest recorded average since 1982.