The Latest Breaking News from Drought

Iraq's Prized Rice Crop Threatened by Drought

Drought is threatening the Iraqi tradition of growing amber rice, the aromatic basis of rich lamb and other dishes, and a key element in a struggling economy. The long-grained variety of rice takes its name from its distinctive scent, which is similar to that of amber resin.

Asharq Al-Awsat · May 15, 2022

Heed the warnings of this palm tree, a 200-year-old drought survivor

About 200 years ago, a palm tree was planted in downtown Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Times · May 14, 2022

Ten Nigerian cabinet ministers step down ahead of 2023 presidential elections

There's political upheaval in Nigeria after ten government officials step down, signalling their interest in the 2023 elections. Also, Somalia prepares for a presidential poll this weekend after months of delays. Sunday's winner will have no shortages of challenges, as the country faces an Islamist insurgency, famine and drought. Finally,…

France 24 · May 13, 2022

Trees aren't a climate change cure-all – 2 new studies on the life and death of trees in a warming world show why

When people talk about ways to slow climate change, they often mention trees, and for good reason. Forests take up a large amount of the planet-warming carbon dioxide that people put into the atmosphere when they burn fossil fuels. But will trees keep up that pace as global temperatures rise?…

The Conversation · May 12, 2022

Edison reports ‘circuit activity’ at time of Coastal fire that destroyed 20 homes in Laguna Niguel

LOS ANGELES — Authorities on Thursday were trying to determine the cause of a brush fire that burned at least 20 homes in Laguna Niguel, fueled by winds and dry conditions caused by California’s intense drought.

Los Angeles Times · May 12, 2022

Edison reports ‘circuit activity’ at time of Coastal fire that destroyed 20 homes in Laguna Niguel

LOS ANGELES — Authorities on Thursday were trying to determine the cause of a brush fire that burned at least 20 homes in Laguna Niguel, fueled by winds and dry conditions caused by California’s intense drought.

Los Angeles Times · May 12, 2022

Southwest "megadrought" leads to wildfires and new homicide evidence

California had its driest January to April period on record.

Axios · May 12, 2022

Hunger crisis grips Horn of Africa – but 80% of Britons unaware, poll shows

UK government urged to act as worst drought in 40 years threatens region while aid efforts and global attention remain focused on Ukraine war

The Guardian - UK · May 12, 2022

Amid drought, California desalination project at crossroads

For more than two decades, California’s Orange County has debated whether to build a seaside plant to convert ocean water into drinking water in the hopes of buffering against ever-drier weather and drought

The Independent UK · May 12, 2022

Drought declarations dropped for more than half of Queensland following long wet season

The Balonne, Murweh, Western Downs, Maranoa, and Quilpie shires in south-west Queensland have had their drought status revoked, along with the North Burnett and part of the Flinders shire.

ABC News · May 12, 2022