A Perfect Storm

Millions suffer as 'Global Drought' fueled by climate change deepens. Given the combination of El Niño and climate change, the drought event amplified already harsh climate change impacts, triggering dry conditions across major agricultural and ecological zones. The drought's impacts hit hardest in climate hotspots, regions already suffering from warming trends, population pressures, and fragile infrastructure

- SV KRISHNA CHAITANYA @ Chennai

to the fire of climate change, compounding effects for vulnerable societies past their limits," said Dr Kelly Helm Smith, NDMC assistant director and co-author. The economic fallout is staggering. Zambia's power shortages cost jobs and an estimated 6 per cent of GDP annually, while Spain invested 22.84 billion in irrigation and water infrastructure. Global trade disruptions from the Panama Canal rerouting added costs and delays, with ripple effects felt worldwide. In India, the wheat production loss contributed to a 12 per cent rise in food inflation in 2024.