Reuters, SYDNEYThe heaviest rains in years have fallen across parts of Australia’s east coast, bringing relief to some struggling livestock farmers, although the showers are not likely to break a drought that has crippled the country’s grains sector. Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology said some parts of the state of New South Wales received nearly 100 millimeters of rain over Sunday. “This much-needed rain will certainly bring some much-needed relief and smiles across the country,” said Oliver Gordon, a resident of Bourke. With many agricultural producers battling to stave off bankruptcy, Australia’s government has been forced to offer grants and cheap loans to farmers. Australian Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the impact of the drought would likely continue for years.

Source: Taipei Times November 04, 2019 16:08 UTC