When rainfall is less than normal for a period of weeks to years, streamflows decline, water levels in lakes and reservoirs fall, and the depth to water in wells increases. If dry weather persists and water-supply problems develop, the dry period can become a drought. Learn more: USGS Drought website.

What are two ways humans make droughts worse?

• Widespread cutting down of trees for fuel – This reduces the soil’s ability to hold water – drying out the ground, triggering desertification and leading to drought.
• Constructing a dam on a large river – This may help provide electricity and water to irrigate farmland near the reservoir.

What are 10 causes of drought?

• Lack of rainfall which is likely to cause drought.
• Deforestation as a result of cutting down of trees.
• Drying out of rivers and lakes.
• Global warming.
• Weather patterns as well as air circulation.
• Depletion of soil moisture level.