Drought

Droughts occur when there is not enough rainfall, and water levels are low. Although they can happen anywhere in the United States, they often happen in the Midwest and South. Texas is most at risk. They are most common where the climate is warmer. Droughts can increase the risk of wildfires, flash floods, and landslides. Droughts can be dangerous to people and animals that need crops and plants to eat. Droughts can cause famine or deserts. They can last as long as a week, month, year, or more. Droughts can cause cracks in the Earth's ground due to lack of rain.

Deadliest in World History:

• Occurred in 1876 in China

• 9-13 million people died of famine because there was no rain for three years

Deadliest in U.S. History:

• The Dust Bowl

• Occurred in 1930,in Colorado, Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico

• 7,000 people died

• Affected 50 million acres of farmland

• 250,000 people left the area

BEFORE A DROUGHT:

• Repair dripping faucets and check for leaks

• Conserve water

• Choose energy efficient appliances (refrigerator, washer, dishwasher)

DURING A DROUGHT:

• Take short showers, not baths

• Don’t use the sprinkler

• Don’t wash your car

• Don’t let water run when you brush your teeth

• Only flush for number 2

AFTER A DROUGHT:

• Continue to conserve water

KEYWORDS:

Famine: extreme lack of food

Dust Bowl: Dust storms caused because it was so dry. It ended in 1939 when it finally rained.

Source: FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/