Australia is on the brink of facing unprecedented megadroughts that could span decades, according to recent research from the Australian National University (ANU).
The study utilized multiple climate models to simulate historical droughts in Australia from 850 to 2000, providing a comprehensive view of how such extreme weather events might evolve in the future.
Findings indicate that droughts in south-western and eastern Australia during the 20th century were significantly longer on average compared to pre-industrial times. The research warns that with the ongoing impact of climate change, Australia could soon experience megadroughts lasting up to 20 years.
These prolonged droughts pose severe risks to water availability, agriculture, and the overall economy, highlighting the urgent need for adaptive strategies and sustainable water management practices.
As climate patterns continue to shift, the resilience of Australian communities and ecosystems will be tested, emphasizing the importance of global efforts to mitigate climate change and support vulnerable regions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
