The Mekong Delta province of Ca Mau had finally enjoyed rainfall after a storm hit on May 11, ending a prolonged period of drought extending over several months.

It rained heavily for hours in Ca Mau city, the districts of Tran Van Thoi, Thoi Binh and U Minh, and across the U Minh Ha cajuput forest area.

However, according to Nguyen Van Hai, Head of the provincial Forest Management Department , one instance of rainfall is not enough on its own to overcome the impacts of the long-lasting drought.

The 75,000-hectare forest, which includes large swathes of primeval forest, remains on full fire alert, with 1,300 people standing ready to extinguish any outbreaks.

Director Le Van Su from of the province’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said the rain has alleviated the water shortage issue for thousands of households. However, local businesses, especially farmers, cannot restart their work until the end of May when rainy season is expected to arrive.-VNA