Early spring blossoms appear as parts of China emerge from winter chill

Southern and eastern China are emerging from the chill of winter with the emergence of the first cherry and plum blossoms ushering in the warmer months ahead and drawing tourists to enjoy the dazzling February scenery.

In east China's Fujian Province, Yongfu County has come to life with a spectacular bloom of hundreds of thousands of cherry blossoms.

Featuring 42 distinct species of cherry flowers, the blossom season in Yongfu town runs from late January to mid-March, drawing both local and out-of-town visitors to appreciate the beauty of spring and provide economic benefits to local farmers.

Yongchuan District in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality is also awash with blossoming plum trees after recent warm weather and bright sunlight encouraged the new flowers to burst forth.

Early spring blossoms appear as parts of China emerge from winter chill

Early spring blossoms appear as parts of China emerge from winter chill

Thailand's caretaker Prime Minister and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul announced on Sunday that the Bhumjaithai Party had won Thailand's House of Representatives election.

With more than 87 percent of ballots counted by the country's Election Commission, the Bhumjaithai Party was leading the vote, followed by the People's Party and the Pheu Thai Party in third.

Speaking earlier, People's Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut said his party accepted the results so far and was prepared to serve as the opposition if Bhumjaithai succeeds in forming a government.

About 50 million eligible voters cast ballots on Sunday to elect all 500 members of the lower house. A simple majority of 251 seats is required to elect a prime minister and form a new government.

Thai caretaker PM says Bhumjaithai Party wins House of Representatives election