Drought Outlook 2024
During June, drought improvement and removal is favored in portions of the Southeast, Northern Great Plains, and the Southern Great Plains. Drought development is likely across portions of the Southern Great Plains, the Southwest, the Northwest, and in parts of Hawai’i. Drought persistence is forecast across drought areas of the Southwest, Northwest, Northern Great Plains, Southern Great Plains, the Midwest, the Southeast, and Hawai’i. Drought can have direct and indirect impacts on health—increasing incidence of illness among those living in the affected area and worsening mental health outcomes as livelihoods are challenged.
Drought Affects Health in Many Ways
Drought increases the risk for a diverse range of health outcomes. For example:
Low crop yields can result in rising food prices and shortages, potentially leading to malnutrition.
Dry soil can increase the number of particulates like dust and pollen that are suspended in the air, which can irritate the bronchial passages and lungs.
Dust storms can spread the fungus that causes coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever).
If there isn’t enough water to flow, waterways may become stagnant breeding grounds for disease vectors like mosquitos as well as viruses and bacteria.
Drought’s complex economic consequences can increase mood disorders, domestic violence, and suicide.
Long-term droughts can cause poor-quality drinking water and leave inadequate water for hygiene and sanitation.
