Context
Large parts of Europe are experiencing severe drought and heat waves, adversely affecting crops such as potatoes, corn, grapes and hops. The crisis is linked to persistent dry conditions, high temperatures and changing rainfall patterns, threatening agricultural output and farm incomes.
Explanation
- Drought is a prolonged period of abnormally low precipitation causing water scarcity and soil-moisture deficits.
- Meteorological drought refers to deficient rainfall, while agricultural drought occurs when soil moisture becomes inadequate for crop growth.
- Hydrological drought involves reduced streamflow, reservoir storage and groundwater levels.
- Climate change can intensify drought through higher temperatures, increased evapotranspiration and altered precipitation patterns.
- El Niño involves abnormal warming of the central/eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean and can influence weather patterns globally.
- Prolonged heat and drought cause crop stress, lower yields and greater irrigation demand, affecting food security and prices.
- Adaptation measures include drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation, soil-moisture conservation and improved water management.
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European Drought: Climate Risk and Food Security