{"id":21807,"date":"2025-10-02T16:29:09","date_gmt":"2025-10-02T16:29:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/?p=21807"},"modified":"2025-10-02T16:29:09","modified_gmt":"2025-10-02T16:29:09","slug":"drought-emergency-preparedness-and-recovery","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/drought-emergency-preparedness-and-recovery\/","title":{"rendered":"Drought: Emergency Preparedness and Recovery"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One of the most challenging natural hazards facing communities across the United States. Often described as a &#8220;creeping&#8221; 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.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Understanding Drought and Its Impacts<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-21827 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/cornfield-4240209_1280-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"short stalks of corn in dry soil\" width=\"255\" height=\"170\" srcset=\"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/cornfield-4240209_1280-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/cornfield-4240209_1280-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/cornfield-4240209_1280-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/09\/cornfield-4240209_1280.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 255px) 100vw, 255px\" \/>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 &#8211; especially in the western U.S. &#8211; 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.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Community-Level Preparedness Strategies<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Productive community planning is key to thriving through drought conditions. Local governments, water agencies, and libraries can help by:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tracking drought conditions using tools such as the U.S. Drought Monitor and sharing updates with residents.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Supporting water conservation campaigns and educating the public about water-saving techniques.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Developing and publicizing drought response plans that specify actions for different drought stages.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Coordinating with energy utilities, farmers, and emergency managers to facilitate resource sharing in crisis response.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Building systems for early warning communication and promoting public health safety through trusted outreach channels.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">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.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Individual Actions to Prepare for Drought<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:322,&quot;335559739&quot;:322}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Personal water conservation is essential. Individuals and families can make a difference by:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Installing water-efficient fixtures and repairing leaks can save hundreds of gallons yearly.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads and taking shorter showers.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Watering gardens efficiently by using mulch, drip irrigation, or drought-resistant plants.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Collecting rainwater for landscaping, where allowed by local regulations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reusing household graywater where feasible to water gardens.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Checking local drought plans via government websites to learn about water usage restrictions before signs of drought appear.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Accessing information from reliable sources, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.drought.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Drought.gov<\/a> and state or local water agencies, empowers individuals to stay updated on drought status and guidelines for their area.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Engaging Vulnerable Populations<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">During drought, certain groups &#8211; like the elderly, people with medical needs, and low-income households &#8211; may be more at risk. Communities can support vulnerable people by:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Mapping areas with limited water access and targeting outreach or aid programs there.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Collaborating with local service organizations, food banks, and public health departments to distribute clean water, information, and food supplies as needed.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Organizing volunteer networks to assist with water delivery, transportation, and home maintenance for high-risk individuals.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Enhancing Household and Community Food Security<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Drought conditions threaten food availability and affordability. Strategies include:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Planting backyard or community gardens with drought-tolerant crops that require less watering.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Setting up seed banks to preserve adapted plant varieties.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Practicing crop rotation and diversification if involved in agriculture, which supports resilient food supplies.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Planning household food stocks with energy- and nutrient-dense staples.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Building a Drought-Ready Community<\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A drought-ready community involves residents, local leaders, and organizations working together. Key steps are:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Assessing past drought events and preparing for likely impacts.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Setting up formal communication and monitoring systems based on agency recommendations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Continuously educating the public about the local drought plan and water resources.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sequencing response actions to mobilize resources efficiently as drought stages escalate.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">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.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Resources<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:322,&quot;335559739&quot;:322}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drought.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Drought Portal (Drought.gov)<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">A central portal providing drought monitoring, data, educational materials, and preparedness tools from multiple U.S. federal agencies.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span class=\"TextRun SCXW95953920 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW95953920 BCX0\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/climate-indicators\/climate-change-indicators-drought\">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)<\/a> \u2013 Climate Indicators: Drought<\/span><\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Scientific data and information on drought trends, impacts, and adaptation strategies in the U.S.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/drought.unl.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC)<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Provides research, monitoring tools, and guidance on drought planning and risk reduction.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usgs.gov\/mission-areas\/water-resources\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)<\/a> \u2013 Water Resources<\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Data and research on groundwater and surface water resources relevant to drought conditions.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drought.gov\/data-maps-tools\/us-drought-monitor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)<\/a> \u2013 Drought Monitor<\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Weekly updated national drought maps and reports.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/nceh\/heatisland\/drought\/default.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)<\/a> \u2013 Preparing for the Health Effects of Drought<\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Information on public health risks and community preparedness related to drought.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.usda.gov\/topics\/disaster\/drought\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)<\/a> \u2013 Drought Resources<\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Resources related to agricultural drought impacts, insurance, and conservation programs.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redcross.org\/get-help\/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies\/types-of-emergencies\/drought.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Red Cross<\/a> \u2013 Drought Preparedness<\/span><br \/>\n<span data-contrast=\"auto\">Practical advice for households and communities on how to prepare for drought emergencies.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>[this post was written by Kathryn Vela, Executive Director of NNLM Region 5]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>One of the most challenging natural hazards facing communities across the United States. Often described as a &#8220;creeping&#8221; 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&#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/drought-emergency-preparedness-and-recovery\/\">Read More &raquo;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[43,10],"tags":[45,450,226],"class_list":["post-21807","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-emergency-preparedness","category-health-observances","tag-disaster-preparedness","tag-drought","tag-emergency-preparedness"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21807","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21807"}],"version-history":[{"count":14,"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21807\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":21855,"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21807\/revisions\/21855"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21807"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21807"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/news.nnlm.gov\/region_5\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21807"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}