Drought

Drought is a condition of abnormally dry weather within a geographic region. Drought refers to the lack of enough rain for an extended period of time in a specific region. During droughts, rainfall is less than normal, causing a water imbalance and resultant water shortage. It occurs when the rate of evaporation and transpiration exceeds precipitation for a considerable period. The effects of drought begin with acute water shortage, water-supply reservoirs becoming empty, and wells drying up. Groundwater level is also depleted, soil degradation and erosion occurs and there is extensive crop damage. People might become impoverished and diseases may spread due to malnutrition.

National Geographic – Why Cape Town is running out of water and who’s next

In 2018 Cape Town faced its worst drought on record. This video from National Geographic outlines the potential effects and the strategies deployed to mitigate its impact before the disaster it happened.

Lana Mazahreh – 3 thoughtful ways to conserve water

According to the UN, nearly one in three people worldwide live in a country facing a water crisis, and less than five percent of the world lives in a country that has more water today than it did 20 years ago. Lana Mazahreh grew up in Jordan, a state that has experienced absolute water scarcity since 1973, where she learned how to conserve water as soon as she was old enough to learn how to write her name. she shares three lessons from water-poor countries.

Seeker – Can Air Be A Water Source During A Drought?

Most of the U.S. is suffering a terrible drought, but scientists believe we may be able to pull water from air and survive the way desert creatures do.

Now explore some written sources.

You might follow some of the links below or identify your own sources to extend your learning and help you to complete your worksheet:

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