If exposed to drought for long periods, they can be affected by desertification, i.e. they can turn into deserts. According to the UNCCD (UN Convention to Combat Desertification), 25% of the world’s land area is either highly degraded or undergoing high rates of degradation.

Desertification can be reduced by adopting the following strategies: Planting more trees – the roots of trees hold the soil together and help to reduce soil erosion from wind and rain. Water management – water can be stored in earth dams in the wet season and used to irrigate crops during the dry season.

The main causes of desertification include: Population growth – the population in some desert areas is increasing. In places where there are developments in mining and tourism, people are attracted by jobs. An increased population is putting greater pressure on the environment for resources such as wood and water.

When rainfall is less than normal for a period of weeks to years, streamflows decline, water levels in lakes and reservoirs fall, and the depth to water in wells increases. If dry weather persists and water-supply problems develop, the dry period can become a drought.

Drought can also cause long-term public health problems, including: Shortages of drinking water and poor quality drinking water. Impacts on air quality, sanitation and hygiene, and food and nutrition. More disease, such as West Nile Virus carried by mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water.

Being mindful of the amount of water you use each day can be a powerful way to prevent droughts. Turning off the faucet while you brush your teeth, watering your garden early in the morning so less water evaporates, and installing low-flow plumbing fixtures all are good ways to prevent wasted water.