Chinese meteorologists predict that the drought in the south of the country may last until next spring.

Low Autumn rainfall in southern China has resulted in the worst drought in five decades in the area.

The People's Daily reports that the natural disaster has had a serious impact on agricultural output.

The Beijing Morning Post says the direct loss has amounted to four billion yuan, or US$480 million.

So far, the central government has earmarked 250 million yuan, or US$30 million, for disaster relief in the drought-hit areas.

(CRI November 3, 2004)