Weather 101: Drought
Updated: October 12, 2011
Definition
Drought is defined as an abnormally dry period of weather that causes issues like crop damage, water-suppl shortage, etc. in the affected area. The drought severity depends on lack of moisture and duration. Classifications
There are many classifications of drought and they are as follows.Abnormally Dry (D0) - Going into drought: short-term dryness slowing planting, growth of crops or pastures; fire risk above average. Coming out of drought: some lingering water deficits; pastures or drops not fully recovered.
Moderate Drought (D1) - Some damage to crops, pastures; fire risk high; streams, reservoirs or wells low, some water shortages developing or imminent, voluntary water use restrictions requested.
Severe Drought (D2) - Crop or pasture losses likely; fire risk very high; water shortages common, water restrictions imposed.
Extreme Drought (D3) - Major crop or pasture losses; extreme fire danger; widespread water shortages or restrictions.
Exceptional Drought (D4) - Exceptional and widespread crop or pasture losses; exceptional fire risk; shortages of water in reservoirs, streams and wells, creating water emergencies.
