The country is consuming groundwater faster than it is being replenished, and the result of the rapid depletion is that water tables are dropping at alarming rates.

FORBES: China's Strict New Water Policy

Like its scaly counterpart, Water Runner uses a rapid slapping motion of the "feet" that provides enough propulsion for the bot to avoid sinking or tipping over.

ENGADGET: The miraculous CMU Water Runner

High-volume pumps have been set up in North Yorkshire as water levels rise after the rapid thaw of snow and further rainfall.

BBC: Pumps in place in Ryedale due to flood threat

The objective of World Water Day 2011 is to focus international attention on the impact of rapid urban population growth, industrialization and uncertainties caused by climate change, conflicts and natural disasters on urban water systems.

UNESCO: World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP)

Department spokesman Sean McCormack said the U.S. Mission in Bangladesh, anticipating the storm, pre-positioned 16 Zodiac boats, water treatment systems, water ambulances and food for a more rapid response.

CNN: Cyclone death toll soars to 1,000

The sheer quantity of water gushing under bridges meant the otters could not swim against the rapid current, so they tried to cross the road instead and often got hit by cars.

BBC: New threats to UK otters' survival