Survival Prep: About the Megadrought

Hey guys, welcome back to the next addition to Survival prep. There are plenty of reasons to do just that. So many things are happening in our world and perhaps the most dire one would be the water sources drying up from lakes to rivers. With the potential of that being a long term problem we must look to any and all alternatives for the future.

Already looking to prepare for water shortages? click here

A megadrought is defined as a prolonged period of drought lasting several decades or even a century. In North America, the risk of a megadrought is increasing due to factors such as climate change, population growth, and over-extraction of water resources. The current drought conditions in the western United States, combined with projections of a drier future, raise concerns about the availability of water. This is scary to think about but important to be aware of.

Climate change is a key driver of the increasing risk of a megadrought in North America. Rising temperatures lead to increased evaporation, which reduces the amount of water available for humans and ecosystems. Additionally, changing precipitation patterns can result in less water being available for use, particularly in arid regions. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projects that the western United States will experience increased aridity and reduced precipitation in the coming decades.

Population growth also contributes to the risk of a megadrought in North America. As the population grows, so does the demand for water. This demand is met through the extraction of water from rivers, lakes, and groundwater aquifers. Over time, the combination of population growth and increased water use can lead to water depletion and the risk of a megadrought.

The over-extraction of water resources is a major factor contributing to the risk of a megadrought. Ground water aquifers are being depleted at an alarming rate in many areas, including the western United States, where over-pumping has led to declining water levels and the risk of permanent water loss. Rivers and lakes are also being depleted due to increased water use, which can lead to reduced flow and the risk of drought.

The consequences of a megadrought would be significant. A prolonged period of drought can lead to water scarcity, which would impact both human and ecological systems. Agriculture, the primary user of water in many regions, would be heavily impacted, potentially leading to food shortages and increased prices. Urban areas could also experience water shortages, resulting in restricted water use and potentially affecting the availability of drinking water.

In addition to the impacts on human systems, a megadrought would also have significant ecological consequences. Reduced water availability would impact aquatic species and their habitats, potentially leading to declines in biodiversity. Terrestrial ecosystems, including forests and grasslands, would also be impacted, potentially leading to changes in species composition and alterations to ecosystem function.

To reduce the risk of a megadrought, it is essential to take action now. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions to slow down climate change and its impacts on water resources, promoting water conservation and efficiency, and better managing water resources to ensure that they are sustainably used.

On top of all these contributors, the last one is climate changes that are both natural and likely caused by our pollution all over the globe. A prolonged period of drought could have significant consequences for both human and ecological systems, highlighting the importance of taking action now to reduce the risk of a megadrought. By working together to address these challenges, it is possible to ensure a more sustainable and resilient future for Earth and its inhabitants.

For a simple water source alternative click here