From January to May, the average precipitation stood at 135.4 mm, 74.2 percent of the average annual rainfall of 182.6 mm.

In particular, 7.7 mm rainfall was registered in March, the second lowest since the country's weather observation, with 40.1 mm in May.

80 to 151 mm rainfall was recorded in Ryanggang, Kangwon, North and South Hwanghae provinces, 53 to 67 percent of the average annual rainfall, while 108 to 160 mm in North and South Hamgyong and North and South Phyongan provinces and Pyongyang and Nampho cities, 77 to 86 percent of the average annual rainfall and 163.5 mm in Jagang Province, 90.8 percent of the average annual rainfall.

Hardest hit is North and South Hwanghae provinces.

The drought is badly affecting rice-transplanting now under way in the country.

The drought is likely to continue in upcoming days.