Drought hotspots around the world 2023-2025

This report identifies the regions of the world that were most severely affected by droughts in 2023–2024, with some continuing into 2025. It explores the impacts experienced in those areas, investigates the underlying vulnerabilities of  affected populations, and examines the climatic factors that contributed to the severity of the droughts’ effects.

Future drought risks will be shaped by environmental and societal changes, including trends in sustainability, globalization, demographics, and innovation. Without major reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, rising temperatures will lead to more frequent and severe droughts by increasing heat, evaporation, and shifting precipitation patterns. Effective drought mitigation strategies will involve reducing water demand and preparing for drought, while ensuring underserved communities are included in decision-making to address inequalities.