Rainy conditions in northern Taiwan have done little to alleviate the country’s worst drought in 56 years.
The economics ministry says that it attempted to artificially induce more precipitation over Taiwan’s reservoirs in order to take advantage of favorable conditions over the weekend. But those efforts only bore mild results.
Overall, Taiwan’s reservoirs collected 621 tons of rainwater. Officials say, though, that only 85 tons of that water went to two reservoirs in Hsinchu County that have a pressing need. They say that’s only enough water for two to three additional days.
Officials are calling on people to conserve water, in light of the severe water shortage.
The Central Weather Bureau says another, less powerful storm system will approach Taiwan later this week. Officials say they will monitor the weather and artificially induce more rain when conditions are optimal.