Drought is a severe weather condition caused by a lack of rainfall. It can affect the health of people living in affected areas and lead to food and water shortages, which can have devastating impacts.
People in low-income countries are the most at risk from drought. They are responsible for only a small percentage of global carbon emissions and therefore global warming, yet they’re bearing the brunt of its impact in the form of increased risks from natural disasters like drought. Without sufficient water, crops can’t grow, animals die and hunger takes hold. This can have serious consequences for human health, including malnutrition and disease.
During a drought, water levels in lakes and rivers drop, and streams dry up. This can also significantly reduce the availability of clean drinking water. In addition, it can increase the risk of diseases caused by poor water quality, such as cholera and typhoid. It can also make it harder for people to access safe, affordable treatment for cholera and diarrhoea.
Drought can also cause economic losses for businesses that rely on water, such as agriculture and hydroelectric power generation. It can also reduce the availability of cooling capability for electricity-heavy facilities, like datacenters and nuclear plants, affecting their operations. It can also halt manufacturing and impact the chemical industry, which relies on water for many mixtures and dilutions. There are ways we can help prevent drought. This includes reducing water consumption, fixing leaks and using energy-efficient appliances, and investing in reforestation and greening initiatives that will help the soil store water optimally.
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