Imagine droughts lasting decades—not years. That’s the chilling reality Australia could face, according to new research from the Australian National University (ANU). Using climate models to analyze droughts from as far back as 850 CE, scientists warn of “megadroughts” lasting up to 20 years, fueled by climate change.
From Past to Present: A Troubling Trend
The study found that 20th-century droughts in south-western and eastern Australia were already longer than those in pre-industrial times. But future projections? Think Mad Max-level dry spells, with ecosystems, farms, and cities pushed to their limits.
Why This Matters for Gen Z
For young activists and future leaders, this isn’t just science—it’s a roadmap. Rising global temperatures could turn Australia’s climate extremes into the new normal, affecting food security, biodiversity, and even regional economies.
ANU researchers stress that cutting emissions and investing in water resilience are non-negotiables. The clock’s ticking—will policymakers listen?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com