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.