Drought is an extended period of dry weather where there is not enough water to meet our needs.
The Australian climate is very prone to drought and has experienced several major droughts over the past 130 years, including the Federation Drought (1895 – 1903), the World War II drought (1939 – 1945) and the Millennium Drought (1996 – 2010). Climate change is also making drought conditions in Australia worse by driving an increase in hot days and heatwaves.
Drought has widespread impacts on public health, ecosystems, agriculture, water supply and the economy.
The lack of precipitation creates a chain that impacts the environment and communities.
Due to its effect on water access and quality, drought is linked to a range of long-term health problems. Water shortages or poor quality drinking water can impact sanitation and hygiene, food supply and nutrition, and mental health. Prolonged drought conditions can be particularly tough for those in rural areas, including farmers whose livelihoods often rely on having available water for crops and livestock. This loss of agricultural production also has huge impacts to our economy.
No ecosystem is immune to the effects of drought:
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