Drought is a period of abnormally dry weather that lasts a long time and causes harm to people, animals, plants, and the environment. It can be caused by changes in the normal movement of clouds and moisture around Earth, as well as climate change-related factors like warmer worldwide temperatures.
The most common cause of drought is reduced crop yields, which can lead to food shortages and higher prices for crops. It can also contribute to wildfires and altered rates of carbon, nutrient, and water cycling, all of which impact our ecosystem services.
In addition to agricultural impacts, drought can disrupt transportation networks, especially those that depend on water-based shipping routes. The increased costs of these transportation methods can be passed on to consumers and businesses.
Depending on how long a drought is, it can have positive or negative impacts. For example, if farmers lose their corn crop, they might use the money they would have spent on a new tractor to hire someone to drill irrigation wells for them. That way, they can still make money and the community benefits from the work they’re doing.
Despite the serious effects of drought, there are steps we can take to lessen its impact on our economy, communities, and planet. Proactive planning, adopting innovative water management practices, and pushing for broader environmental action can help us all be better prepared to deal with natural hazards and avoid their worst consequences. Learn more here.