The article discusses a recent global study led by Dr. Solomon H. Gebrekolkos, which highlights the role of atmospheric evaporative demand (AED) in enhancing drought intensity due to climate change. While drought is often associated solely with insufficient rainfall, this research reveals that as temperatures rise, the air’s capacity to "thirst" for water from various sources increases, intensifying drought conditions by approximately 40%.
The study employed historical data from 1901 to 2022 to analyze drought trends using the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). Findings indicated a notable increase in global drought prevalence, particularly from 2018 to 2022, with one-third of the world’s land experiencing severe drought in 2022—the worst on record.
Certain regions, like Europe and parts of Africa, showed consistent drying trends due to increased AED, while other areas, such as South Asia, experienced heightened rainfall despite rising AED. The study underscored that changes in AED significantly contribute to drought conditions, often surpassing the effects of reduced rainfall.
It emphasized the need for improved drought monitoring that incorporates AED and urged the development of adaptive strategies to manage water resources effectively. With rising temperatures, AED’s impact on drought is projected to become even more pronounced, necessitating immediate action for effective risk management. The full study was published in Nature.
