Why is the modern planet suffering from devastating droughts? Learn about the causes and consequences.

The problem of drought in the modern world

A new report prepared by the United Nations raises an important issue: since the beginning of the 21st century, there has been a concerning increase in the number and duration of drought periods, which have increased by almost 30%. Currently, the catastrophic drought affecting the Amazon is leading to the death of hundreds of dolphins, while local residents are becoming refugees in their own lands.

Where else are droughts observed?

Where else in the world are similar droughts being recorded, and what are their main causes? What caused the summer of 2023 to be so hot? What changes have led to the most devastating droughts in history? Where can one find up-to-date information on the current situation? We will try to answer these questions below.

Definition and factors of drought

Drought is a natural phenomenon associated with a prolonged lack of precipitation in certain regions, resulting in a significant decrease in moisture levels in the soil and water bodies. The main factors that provoke droughts include:

• Changes in climate conditions that exacerbate the frequency and intensity of such phenomena.
• Human activity, including excessive consumption of water resources in agriculture, industry, and daily life.
• Deforestation and changes in the natural landscape that affect the water regime.

Some regions are much more susceptible to droughts due to their geographical location and climatic conditions. For example, areas with desert and semi-desert climates often suffer from prolonged dry periods. Such climatic conditions can have extremely negative consequences for ecosystems, agriculture, the economy, and society as a whole on a global scale.

Current manifestations of drought

As of today, many regions are facing the most severe manifestations of drought. Global data confirms that various parts of the Earth are experiencing its consequences. In particular, the northern part of Italy is currently undergoing the most serious drought in the last seven years. The Po River, which has traditionally served as the main transportation artery supporting the livelihoods of the northern regions, is now showing a significant drop in water levels, which are three meters below normal.

This alarming situation threatens both the region's ecosystem and the existence of local residents who depend on water resources day by day.

The hot summer of 2023

As for the summer of 2023, it has been incredibly hot for the entire world. Comparative studies indicate that this summer set new temperature records, comparable only to the top ten hottest summer seasons in the history of the climate. These drastic changes in the climate draw attention to environmental issues, as well as the need for active measures to protect natural resources.

Historical perspective on droughts

In summary, it is worth noting that at different historical moments, humanity has faced severe droughts, some of which have remained in memory. Among the significant examples are the Dust Bowl phenomenon in the United States in the 1930s, the terrible conditions in Africa between 1981 and 1984, the floods in Australia from 2001 to 2009, as well as the disasters that occurred in China from 1876 to 1879.

Each of these episodes has left a deep mark in the chronicles of the countries that faced extreme climate conditions. Thus, studying this issue becomes increasingly important in light of the challenges that await us in the future.

The situation in Italy

In early July, the Italian government made an important decision to introduce a special regime in five regions, in response to a critical natural situation that affected a significant number of citizens. About 17 million people live in areas along the Po River, where more than half of the total population of pigs and cattle in the country is also concentrated.

Due to the drought, there are serious concerns about a decrease in the supply of olive oil and rice, which could lead to a rise in prices for these goods.50%.

Drought in France

In France, the most intense drought since the beginning of meteorological records is being recorded, starting from1958Almost across the country, limits have been imposed on water usage, which is expected to negatively impact the agricultural sector. Corn yields are expected to decrease by nearly20%Regarding the year 2021, according to information from representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture.

Portuguese heat

Meanwhile, Portugal has recorded a record high temperature in July, and99%The territories of the country are experiencing serious or extraordinary drought. The meteorological service IPMA reported that the average temperatures this month have been slightly above40°Cthat it is three degrees higher than the usual readings for July.

Drought in Romania and England

In Romania, there are more75%agricultural lands are suffering from a lack of moisture.

Drought in the Amazon

Recent studies show that the Amazon region is experiencing an unusually high drought, which is expected to last at least until 2024. This deteriorating climate condition could lead to serious economic difficulties for local residents, whose lives are closely tied to fishing, one of their main sources of livelihood.

Reasons for the hot year of 2023

The concerning question is why the current year 2023 has been so hot. According to information provided by the European Copernicus Climate Change Service, this summer has not only been hot but also record-breaking — the hottest in recorded history. The average temperature on the planet has reached16.77 degrees Celsiusthat exceeds the data recorded over three decades from 1990 to 2020 by 0.66 degrees.

The National Center for Environmental Information (NCEI) reports that the current year is showing temperature anomalies that can be compared to the hottest years in global climate history.

• 2016
• 2020
• 2019
• 2017
• 2015
• 2022
• 2018
• 2021
• 2014
• 2010

Graphical data shows that in 2023, temperature anomalies do not exceed the levels of 2016, which still remains the warmest year, but as of today, 2023 will not be able to surpass it.

Historical droughts

When it comes to the most devastating droughts in human history, several disasters stand out that have affected a vast number of people.

• Dust storm in the USAIn the 1930s, this disaster affected almost all the impacted areas and had catastrophic consequences over an area of 100 million acres. It led to significant devastation of fertile land and forced thousands of people to leave their homes in search of better living conditions.
• Drought in Africa- It occurred between 1981 and 1984, affecting more than twenty countries on the continent, leading to widespread famine and destruction. This disaster claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people, leaving a deep mark in the memory of the nation.
• Australia- From 2001 to 2009, the country faced prolonged and severe drought periods. This led to a sharp decline in water levels in reservoirs and threatened the future of agriculture. Many farmers found themselves in a difficult financial situation due to the lack of water resources.
• The Great Drought in Qinghai, China- It took place between 1876 and 1879 and became one of the most tragic events in the country's history, leaving an indelible mark in the memory of the people.

Conclusions

Each of the mentioned examples highlights how climate change and the onset of natural disasters can have a profound impact on various regions and cultural traditions, leaving long-lasting consequences for the lives of millions of people.

Conclusion

The conclusion presented in this material emphasizes the seriousness and importance of the drought problem that the world is facing today. We are witnessing not only an increased frequency and duration of these climatic phenomena but also their devastating impact on ecosystems, society, and the economy. In particular, the events in the Amazon, where dolphins are dying due to record heat, serve as a striking example of how climate change affects living organisms and their habitats.

Global climate changeExcessive use of water resources and deforestation create conditions for droughts in various regions of the planet. In this context, it is especially important to understand that the consequences of such phenomena go beyond the immediate damage to the environment; they also affect issues of food security, water supply, and sustainable development in entire countries.

The summer of 2023, which has become the hottest on record, should serve as a wake-up call for us. We cannot remain indifferent to the changes happening around us. Awareness of this issue and active efforts to address it are becoming vital.

Nevertheless, it is also important to remember that there is a possibility to track and analyze the current situation regarding droughts. The development of modern technologies and the creation of monitoring maps will allow us to collect data and make predictions, which will help us respond more effectively to such emergencies.

In conclusion, protecting ecosystems and ensuring a sustainable future requires joint efforts from the entire global community. The decisions we make today have consequences that shape not only our present but also the future of the next generations. I hope this material has helped you better understand the issues related to droughts and inspires you to take active steps to overcome them.