North Korea is suffering through one of its worst droughts in decades as it also struggles with a severe food shortage.

State Media KCNA reported Wednesday that a "severe drought has been lingering in all parts" of the country. The average precipitation in North Korea from January to earlier this month was about 2.1 inches, which is 42.3% of the average annual precipitation of 5 inches.

The rainfall is the lowest amount since 1982. Thus far in May, North Korea has seen 0.02 inches of rain. However, Pyongyang City, Nampho City, Kangwon Province and North and South Hwanghae provinces have seen no rainfall.

According to KCNA, if precipitation for the rest of May does not exceed 50% of the average annual precipitation, North Korea's January to May rainfall totals will be about 3 inches, the lowest amount ever recorded for that time period.

The country is attempting to secure water in order to prevent drought damage.

Adding to the struggles is a widespread food shortage. The United Nations reported earlier this month that North Korea has a food deficit of 1.36 million metric tons. The 2018-2019 food crop production is an estimated 4.9 million metric tons, the lowest since the 2008-2009 season.

The inadequate crop production has left more than 10 million North Koreans to face "severe food shortages." Partly driven by unfavorable climatic conditions, the shortage has been exacerbated by limited agricultural supplies such as fertilizer and machinery.

