Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Drought is a prolonged period of abnormally low precipitation, resulting in water scarcity and dry conditions. It can have severe impacts on agriculture, ecosystems, water supplies, and human activities that depend on water.
Desertification refers to the process by which fertile land gradually turns into desert due to factors like drought, deforestation, overgrazing, or improper agricultural practices.
Water stress: Water stress occurs when the demand for water exceeds the available supply in a particular region or for a specific population. It can lead to conflicts over water resources.
Climate change: Climate change can contribute to increased frequency and severity of droughts. It refers to long-term shifts in temperature patterns and weather conditions caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels.