Risk analysis considers the type of hazard and estimates the number of people that might be exposed and the number likely to suffer consequences. The results are used to determine the options for reducing or eliminating risks. Droughts are recurring natural hazards that do not have an expected cyclic time frame. Studying historical droughts of various time frames and severity can show the effects on agriculture, hydrological systems and society. Once people understand the potential length, severity and potential impacts of droughts, people can make informed and appropriate decisions to prepare for future droughts.
Drought affects humans, animals and plants.
There are primary and secondary impacts of drought. An example of a primary impact would be the shortage of water for a farmer to irrigate the crops. A secondary impact would the farmer has a same harvest and less money that they can use to buy more, repair or replace farm equipment. Examples include applying probability estimates to risks and comparing them to estimated personal and social benefits. Droughts are not cyclic, but historical information can give us clues about length and severity.