2. Drought © Karen Devine 2010

3. Droughts Drought is a natural hazard which is prevalent in Australia. Drought is an extended period with below average rainfall. The weather is continuously dry during droughts and there is insufficient water for household needs. © Karen Devine 2010

4. Droughts Droughts generally do not affect the whole of Australia, but sections of the continent. Droughts occur on average in 18 year cycles. Droughts can either be: a) short and intense b) prolonged. © Karen Devine 2010

5. Droughts Droughts are generally caused by seasonal changes in air pressure between South East Asia and Australia. The Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) measures these air pressure changes which either indicate a normal pressure patters or an El Nino Effect. © Karen Devine 2010

6. Droughts A normal weather patterns shows that the sea level air pressure in the South Pacific should be higher than the sea level air pressure in Australia. The El Nino Effect is the main cause of drought in Australia. © Karen Devine 2010

7. Droughts El Nino is caused by patterns of cold ocean currents and a reversal of air pressure causing the development of high pressure systems in Australia. © Karen Devine 2010

8. Droughts There can be 3 main types of impacts of drought: a) Economic impacts b) Environmental impacts c) Social impacts. © Karen Devine 2010

9. Droughts Droughts can impact on: a) agriculture yields b) flora c) fauna d) water consumers. © Karen Devine 2010

10. Pause Point Play film of droughtPlay film of drought. Play film of drought © Karen Devine 2010

11. Individual Responsibility Recycle water in the home Install rainwater tanks Follow water restriction guidelines Install low flow showerheads Install dual flush toilets Plant drought tolerant vegetation Do not overstock farms or ranches © Karen Devine 2010

12. Group Responsibility Follow water restrictions in workplace Recycle water in businesses Install rainwater tanks Water businesses should promote water saving technology © Karen Devine 2010

13. Governmental Responsibility Promote water recycling Impose water restrictions Consider water saving infrastructure Use the tax system to encourage water saving Improve water storage infrastructure Funds for farmers during droughts Education for drought survival. © Karen Devine 2010