Global Droughts Surge 70% Amid Climate Crisis; Arizona Launches Initiative for Sustainable Water Solutions

Climate change is happening now, with more countries experiencing flooding and drought events at the same time. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has reported that extreme droughts are now occurring 70% more often, with an estimated 55 million people globally directly affected by drought each year. The report suggests that human-induced climate change has led to an increased risk of drought, making it the most serious hazard to livestock and crops in nearly every part of the world. By 2040, one in four children will be living in areas with extreme water shortages. In the US, Arizona State University will lead a multi-year Arizona Water Innovation Initiative to provide immediate, actionable solutions to ensure Arizona continues to thrive with a secure future water supply. The initiative will also focus on an advanced water observatory and real-time decision support to revolutionise water measurement, modelling and prediction and provide data necessary to identify critical risks, vulnerabilities and capabilities.