Theory question 208
Environmental Hazards and ConservationWrite explanatory notes on drought under the following: (a) causes; (b) effects; (c) control.
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Drought is a long period with little or no rain, leading to water shortage.
(a) Causes: failure or late onset of rains (shift of the ITD); high temperatures and evaporation; low humidity and little cloud; deforestation and desertification; climate change; overgrazing.
(b) Effects: crop failure and famine; death of livestock; drying of rivers, wells and lakes; migration of people and animals; malnutrition and disease; desertification; conflicts between farmers and herders; loss of income.
(c) Control: irrigation and dams to store water; afforestation and shelter belts; drought-resistant crops; controlled grazing; water conservation; cloud seeding; early warning and education.
Write points under each of the three headings.