NASA | Megadroughts Projected for American West

The video discusses the increasing severity and duration of droughts in the American Southwest and Great Plains due to climate change. It highlights historical droughts like the Dust Bowl and projects future droughts lasting decades. Researchers use tree ring data and climate models to predict these changes, emphasizing the role of greenhouse gas emissions. Two scenarios are explored: continued emissions leading to an 80% risk of prolonged droughts, and reduced emissions resulting in less severe trends. The video underscores the significant impact these droughts could have on water resources, agriculture, and ecosystems.

What major stresses do current droughts in California and the Southwest place on water resources?

In what ways could prolonged droughts impact agriculture and ecosystems in affected regions?