Global Drought Leads to Critical Levels of Food, Water Shortages

As we approach late 2024, global temperatures have surged to an unprecedented 17.16°C (62.89°F), intensifying drought conditions worldwide, Earth.com reported.

This extreme heat has led to accelerated soil water evaporation, severely impacting biodiversity and vegetation. Major river basins, including the Amazon and Zambezi, are experiencing drastically reduced water flows due to low rainfall.

A recent European Commission report highlights alarming temperature anomalies exceeding 3°C in regions like north-western North America and eastern Europe. From August 2023 to July 2024, 52 prolonged drought events were recorded, particularly affecting South America and central Africa, leading to significant crop failures and heightened food insecurity.

Low water levels in the Amazon threaten agriculture and hydropower, while southern Africa faces power shortages from dwindling Zambezi flows. With over 30 million people in need of food assistance by early 2025, urgent international cooperation and proactive measures, such as drought-resistant crops and efficient water management, are essential to mitigate the crisis.