Macao's high salinity crisis Thursday was eased after a two-day "timely rainfall," said Macao Water Co. Ltd, the local monopoly tap water supplier.
   
A statement issued by the company said the salinity level is expected to dip below 600 mg/l Thursday, while the World Health Organization defines the standard level for drinking water at 250 mg/l.
   
The tap water salinity level had remained above 600 mg/l since last December.
   
Macao, counting the water supply on Xijiang River, which is originated in Guangdong province, has long been enduring the salinity crisis caused by the intake of the sea water during the winter season.
   
The salinity crisis this year is the worst in history.

(Xinhua News Agency March 2, 2006)