1.   And if drought persists in the West, the costs can only rise.

2.   If the drought persists, agriculture experts say, a further consequence could be more planting of opium poppies, which tolerate dry conditions far better than wheat.

3.   If the drought persists, it could threaten the seed-production plan itself, scientists said.

4.   If the drought persists, leaf-eating grasshoppers may move from parched fields to irrigated lawns, gardens and row crops.

5.   Officials said if the drought persists, smaller, more rural water systems are likely to encounter problems as their facilities and supplies come under pressure.

6.   Archard Mutalemwa, another water official, said rationing would be introduced if the drought persists.

7.   But while the rains have subsided, drought persists in the north.

8.   Meanwhile, a long-term severe drought persists in the north along the upper and middle reaches of the Yellow River.

9.   Ministry fears only one harvest if drought persists, NEW STRAITS TIMES-

10.   Subramaniam said if the drought persisted, rationing would have to be maintained and other sources would also have to be looked at.