Drought

Prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall.

dry spell

A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to a shortage of water. Droughts can have severe consequences for agriculture, ecosystems, and human populations, including crop failure, famine, wildfires, and water scarcity.

Drought comes from Old English drigh, meaning dry.

A drought is when it doesn't rain for a really long time, and plants and animals can struggle to find water.

The Dust Bowl in the 1930s was a severe drought that affected much of the United States
Droughts can last for years or even decades
Ancient civilizations sometimes collapsed due to prolonged droughts

What is a drought? A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall
What are the effects of drought? Reduced crop yields, water shortages, and increased risk of wildfires
How are droughts measured? Using rainfall data and other indicators like soil moisture

Climate event

Famine Wildfire Water scarcity

Climate change

environmental process natural disaster