Europe currently going through its worst drought in 500 years: Report

According to the EDO (European Drought Observatory), Europe is experiencing its worst drought in around 500 years. There have also been reduced inland shipping as well as lower power production and crop yields, with a state of alert or emergency already being issued across two-thirds of the continent.

EDO, which is overseen by the European Commission, claimed that at least 47% of the region is experiencing warning conditions, with reports of moisture drying out from the soil, thus affecting vegetation.

There has been a severe drought that has been impacting many parts of Europe since the start of this year and has expanded as well as worsened as of August. Even the western Europe-Mediterranean region is expected to face drier and warmer conditions by November, as per EDO’s study.

For those unaware, most of Europe has been witnessing severe temperatures this summer which in turn worsened the drought, set off health warnings, resulted in wildfires, and called for more action to address climate change.

The present drought appears to be the worst in 500 years, although this depends on final data which would be gathered by the end of the season, the Commission claimed.

Production and yield for summer crops have been affected, with grain maize expected to be 16% below the average this year. Even sunflower and soybean yields are likely to drop by 12% and 15% respectively.

Meanwhile, hydropower generation has been severely hit, with other power producers also facing the effects predominately due to water shortages. Speaking of water, low water levels have hindered inland shipping, thus impacting coal and oil transport.

The EDO expects rainfall managed to alleviate the conditions during mid-August, but there were also reports of thunderstorms that resulted in further damage. It is worth noting that the Commission’s drought indicator is made from precipitation, solar radiation, and soil moisture measurements.

Source Credits –

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/8/23/europe-facing-its-worst-drought-for-500-years-study