The Western United States has spent the last two decades in what scientists are now saying is the most extreme megadrought in at least 1,200 years. 2000–2021 was the driest 22-yr period since at least 800.
- In a new study, published in the journal Nature on February 14, researchers also noted that human-caused climate change is a significant driver of the destructive conditions.
- According to their findings, soil moisture deficits doubled in the last 22 years compared with levels in the 1900s. Human-caused warming accounted for a 42 per cent increase in severity.
- In the summer of 2021, both Lake Mead and Lake Powell – the largest reservoirs in North America – reached record-low levels.
- Nearly 65 per cent of the American west is experiencing in severe drought according to the US drought monitor, even after record rainfall hit some areas late last year.
What are Megadroughts?
- Megadroughts are characterized by prolonged periods of dryness that span more than two decades. Within that period there may be occasional better, wet, years, but the respite is brief. The dryness soon returns and drought maintains its long-term grip.
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