Drought conditions reported in 97 regions nationwide

Drought conditions have been reported in 97 regions across the country, according to the interior ministry's October drought report. The situation is particularly severe in Yeongcheon, located in North Gyeongsang Province. Agricultural reservoirs nationwide are experiencing water storage levels at only 70 percent of the average for a typical year.

Over the six months from April 2 to October 1, the cumulative precipitation nationwide amounted to 783.3 millimeters, which is 72.5 percent of the normal year average. As of October 1, meteorological drought conditions had been observed in 97 regions. Out of these, 74 regions were classified as experiencing mild drought, while 22 were classified as moderate drought.

Yeongcheon, situated approximately 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, is facing severe drought conditions. However, it is anticipated that the drought in Yeongcheon will ease by the end of the year, as forecasted above-normal precipitation for November and December, according to the ministry.