Drought can have severe effects on our health, our communities and the environment. The effects vary depending on where the drought is occurring, how intense it is, and how long it lasts. Here are some examples:
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Drinking water shortages – A reduced water supply can affect both the quantity and quality of drinking water. This can lead to less water available for public water systems (town or city water) and lead to dry or contaminated private wells.
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Swimming water hazards – Swimming waters can more easily become contaminated when water levels are low. Drought conditions can cause more cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms. Low water levels can also increase the risk for injuries when someone dives or jumps into shallow water that is normally deeper.
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Heat illness risks – Hot weather can worsen drought conditions, and drought conditions can intensify heat waves and increase risk for heat illnesses.
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Food shortages – Drought conditions can cause less food to be produced, more food to be lost, and more stress for farm and wild animals. Food shortages can also lead to economic stress for farmers and higher food prices for consumers.
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Wildfires and air quality – The dry conditions caused by drought increase the risk for wildfires. This can lead to poor air quality from wildfire smoke. Dry conditions also cause more substances to be in the air, like dust and pollen, that can lead to health problems of the lungs, nose and throat.
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Mental health – Drought can increase uncertainty and financial stress for people who rely on water supply for their livelihood. People affected by drinking water shortages or wildfires can also experience anxiety and stress.