First, we will focus on the impacts on water and food supply. In recent years, the frequency of extreme weather has significantly increased, as rising global temperatures disrupt seasonal and weather patterns. One major consequence has been irregular rainfall, leading to prolonged droughts in both the Global North and South. These droughts have caused significant shortages of water for everyday and agricultural use, threatening food security and public health. While the nature of drought-related challenges varies across regions, we will look into the United States, representing the Global North, and Ethiopia, representing the Global South, as examples to explore what both countries are facing and potential solutions.
Climate change is severely affecting food security across Africa, with Ethiopia being one of the hardest-hit countries. Prolonged droughts have disrupted water resources and agricultural production, making it challenging for people to access safe drinking water and sufficient nutrition. These conditions have led to a rise in malnutrition and other health-related issues, negatively impacting multiple communities’ well-being and livelihoods*2.
In Ethiopia, droughts occur regularly every three to five years, in which both frequency and severity have increased over the past few decades*3. For instance, in 2022, the country experienced severe drought from insufficient rainfall during the rainy season for three consecutive years. This drought led to the depletion of surface water sources, such as rivers, ponds and reservoirs, resulting in a shortage for everyday and agricultural use. As a result, agricultural production declined sharply, and the number of people unable to access adequate nutrition rose significantly*4. Acute malnutrition has become especially severe among mothers and children, with approximately 73% of mothers and 22% of children under the age of five diagnosed with acute malnutrition*5.
Beyond their effects on public health, droughts have significant impacts on Ethiopia’s economy. Agriculture contributes to approximately 30% of the country’s GDP, and around 80% of the population relies on agricultural activities. Accordingly, a decline in agricultural output directly undermines the nation’s economic foundation, with reduced harvests destabilising rural economies and triggering sharp increases in food prices*6. Given these challenges, sustained and comprehensive international assistance is essential to support Ethiopia’s recovery and long-term resilience resulting from drought.
While the impacts of climate change-induced drought differ between the Global South and Global North, we will now explore the situation and response measures in the Global North.
In the US—a Global North nation—the frequency and severity of droughts are increasing from ongoing climate change, just like what is witnessed in the Global South. These droughts contribute to water shortages, agricultural losses and health-related challenges. In 2024, reports highlighted the spread of ‘flash droughts’—rapidly developing drought conditions—affecting more than 45% of the mainland, highlighting the growing urgency of the issue*7.
Moreover, in 2024, a drought emergency was declared in Washington State. This situation was closely monitored by the U.S. Drought Monitor, a joint initiative of the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture). Reports indicated that reduced snowfall and declining reservoir levels could severely impact water availability over the following months*8. Water shortages caused by drought make it increasingly difficult to secure water for both agricultural and everyday use, affecting daily life and public health. These challenges include food shortages due to reduced crop yields and a heightened risk of infectious diseases stemming from deteriorating sanitary conditions. The impacts are especially severe in rural areas and among low-income populations, raising serious concerns about health risks and social vulnerability.
The U.S. Drought Monitor plays a vital role in addressing the growing threat of drought across the country. This system provides real-time monitoring and assessment of drought conditions nationwide, supporting early detection, rapid response and informed policymaking*9. For example, by identifying early signs of drought, farmers and local governments can proactively adjust water usage plans and prepare for potential impacts. In 2024, based on data from the U.S. Drought Monitor, Washington State implemented several emergency measures, including the allocation of up to US$4.5m in drought response subsidies and the facilitation of emergency water rights transfers*8. Although droughts in the US are becoming increasingly severe, real-time monitoring and early intervention strategies are helping to mitigate damage to agriculture and local communities, while also reducing health risks.
While both the Global North and South face shared challenges of drought driven by climate change, there are notable differences in their capacity to respond and the strength of their institutional frameworks. In particular, the Global North has implemented advanced initiatives, such as real-time monitoring systems, which may offer valuable insights for the Global South. By flexibly adapting the knowledge and technologies developed in the Global North to suit local conditions, the Global South can strengthen their climate resilience and enhance their ability to respond effectively to environmental challenges.