Water festival observed in Thailand amid major drought

(REUTERS) Armed with water pistols and buckets, celebrants took part in the annual water festival Songkran in Thailand on Wednesday, amid a severe drought.

As the country faces its worst water shortage in two decades, with 14 out 76 provinces hit, Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has urged people to cut down one day of Songkran to save water. The festival runs from April 13-15.

"Yeah, you got to look after the water for the farmers but people need to let off steam and have that once a year enjoyment and finding that balance," tourist Neil Russel said. "I hope they manage to do it."