Different Types of Drought

Usually when there is a lack of rain for a prolonged period, we think of that as a drought, but drought can actually be broken up into different types to explain differences in regions and their needs. Let’s break down the 5 different types.

Meteorological Drought

Meteorological drought can be considered the source of all the other types of drought. It is defined as a lack of precipitation over a certain region-dependent duration. For example, the Desert Southwest can go longer without rain than the Pacific Northwest before drought sets in.

Hydrological Drought

The effects dryness has on watersheds and river basins describe hydrological drought. Shortfalls on subsurface water supply concern hydrologists the most with the effects often lagging behind meteorological and agricultural drought. 

Agricultural Drought

Meteorological and hydrological drought causes agriculture issues. Precipitation shortages, differences in evapotranspiration, soil water deficits, and reduced groundwater can all have negative impacts on subsoil moisture and plant water demands. 

Socioeconomic Drought

The previous three drought types can bring socioeconomic drought. When the demand of an economic good exceeds supply due to a lack of water, it can be described as an economic drought. Drinking water, food supply, and hydroelectric power are some examples of economic goods. 

Ecological Drought

Ecological drought explains a wide range of impacts and feedback loops as it relates to humans and nature from precipitation deficits. Ecosystems that move beyond vulnerabilities from episodic drought fit into this definition.

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