Drought is a condition that results when the average rainfall for an area drops far below the normal amount for a long period of time. In areas that are not irrigated, the lack of rain causes farm crops to wither and die. Higher than normal temperatures usually accompany periods of drought. These high temperatures increase the stresses on plants and add to the crop damage. Forest and grass fires are more frequent and spread quickly due to the dry conditions. Much valuable timberland and rangeland has been burned during major droughts. Poor management of the soil can frequently lead to wind erosion. Often the dry and crumbled topsoil is blown away by hot, dry winds. Streams, ponds, and wells regularly dry up during a drought, and animals suffer and may even die because of the lack of water.
Fact file
An oasis is a fertile area found within a desert. It is a water source in the middle of often vast, dry land.
