Situated downstream from the dam, Dongting Lake is the second largest fresh water lake in China. But record low rainfall this year has caused sharp drops in water levels in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, causing the drought to spread throughout Hunan, Hubei, Jiangxi, Anhui, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces. The region has suffered from 40 to 60 percent less rainfall than usual. Millions lack adequate drinking water......
Farmer He Shishun agrees. Usually the 49-year-old slowly works his modest plot of land with his aging water buffalo to reap two rice harvests per year along with a variety of fruits and vegetables. This year, due to the water shortage, he will ration his resources and plant just enough for one rice harvest. Unable to grow fresh produce at home, He has been forced to purchase fresh produce for his family at a local market, for high prices that stretch his meager income. ....
Back at Dongting Lake, fisherwoman Hong and farmer He have checked the weather forecast which predicts rainfall in the coming weeks. But ironically heavy rain may worsen their situation before improving it. Officials say the hardened cracked earth may be unable to absorb heavy rains quickly, potentially causing floods during the summer rainy season.
http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/asiapcf/06/03/china.dam.drought/index.html