KUNMING - Lingering drought has left 3 million people and 1.56 million heads of cattle short of drinking water in Southwest China's Yunnan province, said local authorities on Sunday.

According to the provincial meteorological bureau, average rainfall by Sept 7 this year was 668 millimeters, or 22 percent less than that in previous years.

From June to August, a crucial period for the growth of crops, accumulated rainfall was 427 millimeters, 28 percent lower than that in previous years.

The dry spell has ruined about 61,333 hectares of crops, dried up more than 60 rivers, and drained up to 300 reservoirs and pools.

China has earmarked 30 million yuan (about $4.6 million) for drought relief efforts.

Meanwhile, the province has invested 369 million yuan and mobilized 3.05 million people to help with relief work in drought-hit areas.