Rivers in the Czech Republic have become dry. (Source: praguemorning.cz)
Czech Republic Environment Minister Richard Brabec said on April 29 that the country was facing the worst drought in 500 years and some localities may have to witness the water become dried out.
According to a map published by the Ministry of Environment, only 0.1% of the Czech territory has a normal water level in the soil in mid-April, while a severe drought has been recorded on 75.4% of the country.
Speaking after scientists submitted figures showing that the Czech Republic faces a severe drought, Mr.Brabec said: "We are facing an unprecedented drought, both in terms of time lasting as well as impacts. "
According to Mr.Brabec, the rivers will dry up, maybe 10, or even hundreds of localities have to use water from other places. Drought conditions have persisted since 2015, such as rising temperatures and falling rain. The problem is more serious because most of the rivers in the Czech Republic originate from outside the country and the tradition of intensive farming. Drought and rising temperatures also contribute to beetles burrowing under the bark more and more. Last year, the insect caused damage to the Czech Republic estimated to be 1.7 billion USD. According to Mr.Brabec, the Ministry of Environment is discussing an additional spending package worth 3.5 billion crowns (US $ 139.90 million) this year to combat drought./.