Drought
Drought is a prolonged period of abnormally low precipitation that can lead to water shortages, impacting ecosystems, agriculture, water supply, and various human activities. It is a complex natural hazard with significant environmental, social, and economic consequences. Here are key aspects of drought:
Causes of Drought: Meteorological Drought:
Lack of rainfall or below-average precipitation for an extended period characterizes meteorological drought. This is the most common form of drought. Hydrological Drought:
Hydrological drought occurs when water sources such as rivers, lakes, and aquifers experience reduced water levels due to prolonged dry conditions. Agricultural Drought:
Agricultural drought relates to soil moisture deficits that affect crop growth. It occurs when there's not enough water in the soil to meet the needs of crops.