Lessons learned in institutional preparedness and response during the 2022 European drought

The study analyses institutional preparedness and response during the 2022 European drought, one of the most severe droughts on record. Based on a survey of 481 water managers across 30 European countries, combined with hydroclimatic data (SPEI), the research examines how forecasting systems and Drought Management Plans (DMPs) influenced response timing, effectiveness, and evolving perceptions of preparedness. It also investigates whether experiences from the 2018 drought shaped institutional learning and adaptation. The study aims to inform European drought risk governance and contributes to the debate on establishing a coordinated EU Drought Directive.

The findings reveal strong regional and institutional disparities in drought preparedness across Europe. Organizations equipped with forecasting systems or DMPs responded earlier (up to two months sooner) and perceived their measures as more effective than those without such tools. While awareness of drought risk has increased since 2018, preparedness and effectiveness remain uneven, and responses are often reactive rather than strategic. The 2022 drought significantly shaped perceptions of effectiveness and timeliness, suggesting a recency bias. The authors conclude that Europe urgently needs standardized, coordinated drought risk management frameworks, including legally supported preparedness measures at EU level.