Australia could soon face megadroughts lasting for decades, according to new research from the Australian National University (ANU). The study warns that the effects of climate change could exacerbate drought conditions, leading to prolonged periods of extreme dryness.
Researchers at ANU utilized multiple climate models to simulate droughts that occurred in Australia between the years 850 and 2000. By analyzing historical data, they aimed to understand how drought patterns might change in the future. The findings revealed that droughts in southwestern and eastern Australia during the 20th century were, on average, longer than those in pre-industrial times.
“Our simulations indicate a significant shift in drought duration and intensity, which poses substantial challenges for water resource management and agricultural practices,” said one of the lead researchers at ANU.
The study suggests that Australia could experience megadroughts lasting up to 20 years. These extended dry periods could have profound impacts on the nation’s economy, environment, and society. The effects of such megadroughts would be particularly severe due to the increasing influence of climate change.
Experts emphasize the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the potential impacts of prolonged droughts. This includes investing in sustainable water management strategies, improving agricultural resilience, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions to address the underlying causes of climate change.
“Understanding the risk of megadroughts is crucial for developing policies that safeguard Australia’s future,” the researcher added. “Our findings are a call to action for government, industry, and communities to work together in preparing for these potential challenges.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
