Central Chile in grip of severe drought

From CNN's Alberto Pando

CASABLANCA, Chile (CNN) - A severe winter drought that has wrung dry much of central Chile could have grave consequences for about a million small farmers, affecting the price of food and the availability of energy.

More than two-thirds of Chile's provinces have been declared emergency agricultural zones and the vast majority of the lakes and ponds are dry or nearly dry.

Government authorities have promised $50 million in aid, and more if needed, said Marigen Hornkohl, minister of agriculture, who noted that agricultural exports are key to Chile's economy.