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Drought 💦

What is a Drought?

A drought is when there is no rainfall or snowfall for a long period of time, resulting in a water shortage. Droughts can impact the environment, economy, and human health.

What causes a drought?

 Droughts are caused by low amounts of rain or snow over an extended period of time.

Is climate change making droughts worse?

Yes, climate change is a big contributor to droughts. Warmer temperatures, less rainfall, and increased evaporation dries out soil and vegetation. Droughts are also connected to increased heat waves, wildfires, and poor air quality (make sure to check out the modules on these!).

Health Effects of Drought

Droughts can affect our health in many ways, whether it's a direct or indirect effect:​

  • Food Supply: A lack of water (drought) decreases soil quality and plant growth/survival, resulting in lower crop yields and food shortages. In turn, food shortages result in higher food prices and malnourishment. Drought also causes food shortages for livestock which leads to increased food prices.

  • Decreased Water Quantity and Quality: People who rely on well water may have no water and have to purchase and haul water which decreases water quality because contaminants in the water become more concentrated. Water shortages also cause increases in water prices.

  • Air Quality: Dusty and dry conditions can increase the number of particulate matter (or tiny particles) in the air, which can irritate the lungs and worsen respiratory illnesses such as asthma. 

  • Infectious Diseases: Water shortages can cause farmers to use recycled water to grow their crops. But if this water isn't cleaned well enough, it can make people very sick. When it rains less than usual, harmful germs can get into our drinking water, both above and below ground. For instance, germs like E.coli and Salmonella can get onto our food and make people sick during times when there's very little rain.

At-Risk Populations

Some communities and populations will feel the effects of droughts more intensely than others. Below are some examples of groups at greater risk.

What To Do During a Drought

Reduce household water usage

  • Fix any water leaks around your home

  • Take shorter showers 

  • Turn off water when not actively using it, such as while brushing your teeth or shaving

  • Only run the washing machine when you have a full load

  • If you’re in the market for a new appliance or plumbing fixture, select one that is energy- and water-efficient, which can save you money in the long run

Reduce outdoor water usage

  • Select drought-tolerant plants and trees

  • Water your lawn less frequently and during a time when the temperature is cooler, such as in the early morning or late evening

Check local drought conditions

  • Drought.gov provides information on drought conditions in your area

  • Follow the guidance for local outdoor recreation

Solutions to Drought

Individual Solutions

Reduce and conserve water

  • If you can afford it, install water-efficient fixtures such as low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets 

  • Collect rainwater for gardening and non-potable uses 

  • Fix household leaks promptly

  • Take shorter showers and reduce water usage when brushing your teeth and shaving

Home garden practices

  • Implement low-water landscaping using native, drought-resistant plants

  • Retain soil moisture with mulch garden beds

  • Compost to improve soil water retention

Local Solutions

Water resource management

  • Create local water conservation incentive programs

  • Establish stricter water-use regulations during drought periods

Agricultural support

  • Offer financial support for water-efficient irrigation technologies

  • Support crop insurance programs for drought-affected regions

Urban planning

  • Design drought-resistant urban landscapes

  • Mandate water-efficient building codes

  • Create green infrastructure such as rain gardens and permeable pavements

State and Federal Solutions

  • Develop national water conservation strategies

  • Support technological innovations in water conservation

  • Provide disaster relief and economic support for drought-affected regions

  • Offer tax incentives for water-conservation technologies

  • Develop water-sharing agreements between states

Cracked Mud

Advocacy Actions

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  1. Practice water conservation measures at home

  2. Educate others about the impacts of drought (share this module!)

  3. Contact your local and state representatives to support water conservation policies and water infrastructure upgrades

Ready to test your knowledge? Take the quiz below!

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