Where do droughts mostly occur in Africa?
Southern Africa is suffering through its worst drought in several decades and perhaps a century. Diminished and late rainfall, combined with long-term increases in temperatures, have jeopardized the food security and energy supplies of millions of people in the region, most acutely in Zambia and Zimbabwe.
What areas in Africa are prone to drought?
Eastern and western Ethiopia and western Kenya are the regions of the HOA most frequently affected by severe drought (Figure 1). Based on historical rainfall records, there is greater than 40% likelihood that these regions will experience severe drought within the rainy seasons of any given year.
Why is drought common in Africa?
The region was hit by an 18-month drought caused by El Niño and higher temperatures linked to climate change. There is growing scientific analysis suggesting that climate change aggravates their impacts. For many in East Africa, the current drought is the worst in living memory.
How long has there been a drought in Africa?
The 2018–20 Southern Africa drought is an ongoing period of drought taking place in Southern Africa. The drought began in late October 2018, and is negatively affecting food security in the region.
Which countries in Africa are affected by drought?
The countries worst affected by its devastating consequences are, for now, Somalia, Kenya, Djibouti and Ethiopia. Within their borders, their inhabitants are suffering levels of malnutrition, especially in Somalia, up to six times what the UN considers already an emergency.
Which region of Africa is most at risk from desertification?
Desertification is the process of land turning into desert as the quality of the soil declines over time. Many countries around the world suffer from the problems caused by desertification but it is the Sahel region of Africa where the effects are greatest.
What is the main cause of desertification in Africa?
Poverty-related agricultural practices are a major contributor to desertification. Continuous cultivation without adding supplements, overgrazing, lack of soil and water conservation structures, and indiscriminate bushfires aggravate the process of desertification.