Drought: Emergency Preparedness and Recovery

Posted by Carolyn Martin on October 2nd, 2025 Posted in: Emergency Preparedness, Health Observances
Tags: disaster preparedness, drought, emergency preparedness

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One of the most challenging natural hazards facing communities across the United States. Often described as a “creeping” disaster, droughts develop slowly, making its onset difficult to detect and its impacts far-reaching. Injuries and information professionals play a vital role in raising awareness and equipping people with the knowledge to reduce the risk associated with drought. This blog post draws from organization and government agency sources to share practical steps individuals and communities can take for effective drought preparedness, tailored for health outreach and disaster planning. 

Understanding Drought and Its Impacts

Drought occurs when precipitation is well below average for an extended period, leading to water shortages for agriculture, households, and the environment. Its impacts range from crop failures and declining water quality to increased risk for wildfires and public health challenges. The Environmental Protection Agency and National Drought Mitigation Center show that some regions – especially in the western U.S. – face more frequent and intense droughts, while others see sporadic episodes. Drought can disrupt energy production, damage vital infrastructure, and worsen health problems by reducing water availability and quality. 

Community-Level Preparedness Strategies

Productive community planning is key to thriving through drought conditions. Local governments, water agencies, and libraries can help by: 

• Tracking drought conditions using tools such as the U.S. Drought Monitor and sharing updates with residents. 
• Supporting water conservation campaigns and educating the public about water-saving techniques. 
• Developing and publicizing drought response plans that specify actions for different drought stages. 
• Coordinating with energy utilities, farmers, and emergency managers to facilitate resource sharing in crisis response. 
• Building systems for early warning communication and promoting public health safety through trusted outreach channels. 

Libraries are central hubs for disseminating information; they can help organize workshops, distribute educational materials, and promote risk-mapping activities so households and businesses learn how drought affects their area. 

Individual Actions to Prepare for Drought 

Personal water conservation is essential. Individuals and families can make a difference by: 

• Installing water-efficient fixtures and repairing leaks can save hundreds of gallons yearly. 
• Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads and taking shorter showers. 
• Watering gardens efficiently by using mulch, drip irrigation, or drought-resistant plants. 
• Collecting rainwater for landscaping, where allowed by local regulations. 
• Reusing household graywater where feasible to water gardens. 
• Checking local drought plans via government websites to learn about water usage restrictions before signs of drought appear. 

Accessing information from reliable sources, like Drought.gov and state or local water agencies, empowers individuals to stay updated on drought status and guidelines for their area. 

Engaging Vulnerable Populations

During drought, certain groups – like the elderly, people with medical needs, and low-income households – may be more at risk. Communities can support vulnerable people by: 

• Mapping areas with limited water access and targeting outreach or aid programs there. 
• Collaborating with local service organizations, food banks, and public health departments to distribute clean water, information, and food supplies as needed. 
• Organizing volunteer networks to assist with water delivery, transportation, and home maintenance for high-risk individuals. 

Enhancing Household and Community Food Security

Drought conditions threaten food availability and affordability. Strategies include: 

• Planting backyard or community gardens with drought-tolerant crops that require less watering. 
• Setting up seed banks to preserve adapted plant varieties. 
• Practicing crop rotation and diversification if involved in agriculture, which supports resilient food supplies. 
• Planning household food stocks with energy- and nutrient-dense staples. 

Building a Drought-Ready Community

A drought-ready community involves residents, local leaders, and organizations working together. Key steps are: 

• Assessing past drought events and preparing for likely impacts. 
• Setting up formal communication and monitoring systems based on agency recommendations. 
• Continuously educating the public about the local drought plan and water resources. 
• Sequencing response actions to mobilize resources efficiently as drought stages escalate. 

Libraries and information professionals serve as trusted guides, helping communities make informed decisions and reduce risks. By building strong networks and sharing timely, accurate information, individuals and communities can weather droughts and safeguard public health. 

Resources 

1. U.S. Drought Portal (Drought.gov) 
   A central portal providing drought monitoring, data, educational materials, and preparedness tools from multiple U.S. federal agencies. 
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Climate Indicators: Drought
   Scientific data and information on drought trends, impacts, and adaptation strategies in the U.S. 
3. National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC) 
   Provides research, monitoring tools, and guidance on drought planning and risk reduction. 
4. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) – Water Resources
   Data and research on groundwater and surface water resources relevant to drought conditions. 
5. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – Drought Monitor
   Weekly updated national drought maps and reports. 
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Preparing for the Health Effects of Drought
   Information on public health risks and community preparedness related to drought. 
7. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Drought Resources
   Resources related to agricultural drought impacts, insurance, and conservation programs. 
8. American Red Cross – Drought Preparedness
   Practical advice for households and communities on how to prepare for drought emergencies. 

[this post was written by Kathryn Vela, Executive Director of NNLM Region 5]