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Severe Drought
Droughts occur throughout North America and in any year, at least one region is experiencing drought conditions. We usually don't think of droughts in the same way as other natural disasters, such as floods or hurricanes. For example, no one knows for sure how severe a drought will be - until the rains return. But droughts can be more costly than other natural disasters.
Information on this page will help you take steps to reduce impacts before and during a drought:
Before a drought happens
In general, adopt or change to practices, techniques, and equipment that use less on water or work well regardless of drought conditions, before you need them. Not only will this make drought conditions easier to bear, it will reduce demand on existing supplies in general.
At home:
- Install lawn or garden irrigation systems that deliver water most effectively, such as drip hoses instead of above-ground sprinklers.
- Water lawns and gardens in the early morning or evening to minimize evaporation.
- Use lawn and garden plants that are native, or that do well under a wide variety of conditions and require less watering to thrive. More about greenscaping practices and green lawn care.
- In kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, use water-efficient fixtures so you will need less later on.
Farmers and ranchers, additional information and state drought planning contacts, from USDA.
Schools use a tremendous amount of water everyday, and require water for their heating and cooling systems, restrooms, drinking water faucets, locker rooms, cafeteria, laboratories, and outdoor playing fields and lawns. More information about how schools can adopt measure to reduce their use of water.
WaterSense helps everyone identify water-efficient products and programs. The WaterSense label will indicate that these products and programs meet water-efficiency and performance criteria. WaterSense labeled products will perform well, help save money, and encourage innovation in manufacturing. More information for
During drought conditions
Always observe state and local restrictions on water use during a drought. If restricted, for example, do not water your lawn, wash your car, or other non-essential uses, to help ensure there is enough water for general, essential uses. Contact your state or local government for current information and suggestions. National information:
- Find your state water conservation programs
- Drought Information Center for status and predictions from NOAA
- Map of current conditions
- More tips on water conservation from the Red Cross
Apply chemical pesticides and fertilizers carefully - read the label. Chemicals, especially those applied in dry form, can stay dry and be carried by the wind to sensitive areas. If over-applied, they can accumulate and eventually wash away in larger amounts, when the drought ends. Always follow the directions on the pesticide label. More about pesticide health and safety.
Be aware of dust-related health problems. Extended periods of dry weather can increase dust or other fine particles in the air we breathe, and possibly cause or worsen existing health problems. Read more information about how air-borne particle pollution can affect health.
A drought can make hot weather even more severe. Be sure you are prepared to protect yourself and others during hot, dry spells.