Hong Kong(CNN Business) — China is mining and importing more coal as its worst heatwave and drought in six decades hits hydroelectricity, the nation's second biggest source of power.

The country's crucial Yangtze River has dried up in parts because of extreme heat and scant rainfall. The drought has impacted six provinces along the river, affecting the water supply for tens of thousands of people and forcing the closure of factories in some provinces to preserve electricity supplies.

Sichuan, which is famous for its rich water resources and accounts for 21% of China's hydropower, has seen its hydroelectricity capacity plunge by 50% this month, according to the state grid. The unrelenting heatwave has also resulted in unprecedented power demand, pushing the region's electricity grid to the brink.

https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2022/08/23/economy/china-coal-reliance-heat-wave-intl-hnk/index.html