Drought

Have you ever noticed that Nevada’s water supply is much different from many other states? This is because Nevada is going through dry spells called droughts and it is effecting so many people in so many ways.

What is Drought?

Drought is a long period of low rainfall in a region. This typically results in lower water levels in our homes, lakes, and rivers. These dry periods can last from a few weeks to a few years. In Las Vegas, for example, the longest drought lasted 116 days with zero rainfall. This can affect many ranchers and farmers and can even affect office workers and students sitting at their desks right now.

What are the Positive Effects of Drought?

Although many people believe that there are only negative effects of drought, there are many positive effects of drought as well. Drought allows wetlands to be able to sustain more animals and makes it a stronger environment. When we are going through a drought, wetlands have time to dry up and prepare for another wet spell.  

What are the Negative Effects of Drought?

One of the most negative effects of drought is the increased threat of wildfires. When Nevada is dry, wildfires are more dangerous due to the fact that the brush and trees are more dry and catch fire easily. Another negative effect is the cost. Although Nevada does many things in order to save water such as watering schedules, we also have to spend thousands of dollars to fix the damages caused by drought. In 2015, Nevada and California spent almost $2.7 billion on damages.

Stay tuned for my next blog post: Ways to reduce the effects of Drought!

Written by: Baylee Hale