Southern Europe and northern Africa are facing a worsening winter drought, with nearly half of southern Europe’s soil parched and critical water restrictions imposed, according to the EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service. Over 45% of southern Europe experienced soil drought in early February, while 2.5% of Europe and northern Africa reached “alert” levels where crops and vegetation struggle to survive.
From Bad to Worse
The European Drought Observatory (EDO) data shows 25% of Europe and northern Africa now under drought conditions. While slightly better than 2023’s 31.3% drought coverage, 19.3% of the region faces a moisture deficit – a red flag for farmers and urban planners alike.
Emergency Measures Kick In
Governments have declared states of emergency as reservoirs shrink and rivers dwindle. Copernicus warns the drought’s “abnormal vegetation growth” could disrupt ecosystems and agriculture long-term. Scientists link the trend to erratic rainfall patterns fueled by climate change.
What’s Next?
With winter rains failing to replenish supplies, experts urge water conservation and adaptive farming. As one EDO analyst put it: “This isn’t just a dry spell – it’s a wake-up call.”
Over 45% of southern Europe experienced soil drought in early February, while 2.5% of Europe and northern Africa reached “alert” levels where crops and vegetation struggle to survive.
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