Overview
Drought isn't just a dry spell; it's a prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to a shortage of water that impacts ecosystems, economies, and societies. Historically, droughts have triggered famines, mass migrations, and even the collapse of civilizations, as evidenced by the Dust Bowl in the 1930s or the Sahel droughts of the 1970s and 80s. Today, climate change exacerbates these events, making them more frequent and intense, with regions like the American West and the Horn of Africa facing severe, prolonged water stress. Understanding drought requires looking beyond meteorology to agricultural practices, water management policies, and the geopolitical tensions that arise when water becomes a scarce, contested resource. The future of drought management hinges on adaptation, innovation in water conservation, and a global commitment to mitigating climate change.