APPALLING DESOLATION

Taranaki Daily News, 8 August 1930, Page 9

APPALLING DESOLATION

DROUGHT IN UNITED STATES PRAYERS FOR RAIN WANTED HEAT AND FIRES .1 NOREASE Is By Telegraph—Press Assn.—Copyright. Washington, Aug. 6. The concentrated efforts of Government agencies were bent on Wednesday to ascertaining accurately the needs of the drought-stricken country. Desolation equalling the destruction by floods, tornadoes and earthquakes was described t 0 the President in a telegram for aid from Governor Sampson of Kentucky. Other places asked for a proclamation to be issued throughout the nation for prayer meetings for rain and food for human beings as well as cattle. President Hoover said to-day it liad not been determined what action would be taken, but the administration is apparently much worried over tho situation, reports of which become more depressing hourly. The weather forecasts continue to be most gloomy, stating: “We apparently are caught in a pocket.” Low water is widely reported and the fire hazard is increasing. Pennsylvania to-day appeared to be ‘‘burning upFires are raging in other States and the heat continues to touch high points, The death roll is growing. ENORMOUS LOSS OF CROPS; OFFICIALS FEAR SERIOUS CRISIS. Rec.-9-30 p.m. New York, Aug. 6. Officials of the weather _ burcatt at Washington estimate the United States crop losses in the protracted heat wave have already reached a billion dollars. They predict an indefinite continuance with a price increase and food shortages. . . , Forest fires are assuming dangerous proportion in many, sections, those on several wide territories being beyond control. New York, Philadelphia and other cities are facing a milk shortage. . President Hoover is planning to give up his vacation in order to aid the situation as far as possible; The administration is considering the free transportation of cattle from the stricken area to fresh pasturage, and entire official Washington is deeply concerned over the crisis which, it is feared, may reach great proportions.