Drought Monitor

The Drought Monitor: Tracking Drought Conditions Worldwide

What is the Drought Monitor?

The Drought Monitor is a tool used to track drought conditions across the globe. It provides a weekly map that shows the location and intensity of drought in different regions.

How does the Drought Monitor work?

The Drought Monitor uses a combination of data sources to create its maps, including precipitation data, soil moisture data, and satellite imagery. This data is used to calculate a variety of drought indices, which are then used to create the maps.

What are the different drought categories?

The Drought Monitor uses a five-category system to classify drought conditions: Abnormally Dry (D0), Moderate Drought (D1), Severe Drought (D2), Extreme Drought (D3), and Exceptional Drought (D4).

What are the impacts of drought?

Drought can have a significant impact on human populations and ecosystems. It can lead to crop failures, water shortages, and wildfires. Drought can also have a negative impact on public health, as it can increase the risk of disease outbreaks.

How can we mitigate the impacts of drought?

There are a number of things that can be done to mitigate the impacts of drought, including:

• Conserving water
• Improving water infrastructure
• Developing drought-resistant crops
• Providing financial assistance to farmers

Conclusion

The Drought Monitor is a valuable tool for tracking drought conditions and mitigating its impacts. By providing timely and accurate information, the Drought Monitor can help decision-makers take steps to reduce the risks associated with drought.