Drought is a climate phenomenon whereby an area does not experience normal rainfall for an extended period of time. It can be caused by a variety of reasons, including changes in weather patterns and wind that move clouds and moisture over the Earth’s surface, and by what happens upstream from an area. For example, if a drought occurs in a river basin that you depend on for water, it can limit the supply of freshwater. You might have to use a water rationing system, or you may have to drive farther for water. There are three types of drought: hydrological, agricultural, and ecological.
Hydrological drought refers to a lack of surface water and groundwater. It can lead to reduced stream flow and low levels in lakes and groundwater, limiting access to water. This type of drought also impacts agriculture and affects how much food is available for people to buy. Agricultural drought can cause malnutrition by reducing food availability, especially micro-nutrients (e.g iron-deficiency anaemia).
Ecological drought can stunt plant growth and drive animals to extinction, which can have lasting landscape effects. It can also make fires more likely, which increases smoke exposure for those with chronic diseases like asthma and obstructive pulmonary disease.
The social, economic, and health effects of drought are complex. Some groups are more at risk for the early health and well-being impacts of drought. These include farmers, landscapers and garden supply workers who depend on seasonal weather patterns for their livelihood; household water customers in catchments that rely on surface water flows; and older adults who are more susceptible to heat-related stress.
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