Reducing Drought Hazards by Improving Drought Plans
Drought is one of the most complex and costly of all natural disasters. Experience with droughts indicates that a sound drought plan can reduce drought damages. However, drought plans often suffer from deficiencies that limit their value in actual droughts and may increase drought vulnerability.
This research addresses two key needs: to investigate the factors
that reduce drought hazards, and to improve drought plans before a drought
occurs. 
This project has, to date, produced the following results:
(1) The development and implementation of the first drought plan for the State of Georgia, which included work with more than 150 stakeholders to determine drought indicators, and responses. The plan was enacted in March 2003.
(2) The development of statistically consistent and impact-based drought indicators and triggers, including both retrospective and prospective indicators (forecasts), to assess drought conditions and trigger drought responses. Results are currently used by the States of Georgia and Arizona.
(3) The use of climate forecast information for drought decision-making. Estimated savings from using forecasts, during the period 2001-2004, range from $30 million/year (in a non-drought year) to $350 million/year (in a drought year).
Current work involves partnering with water users in the State of Washington and the western U.S. to improve drought plans and preparedness.
Funded by the National Science Foundation
Anne C. Steinemann, PI
Above: Keechelus Lake, 2001. Photo: Washington Dept. of Ecology.