1. Lack of precipitation: A prolonged period of below-average rainfall can lead to a decrease in streamflow and groundwater levels, triggering a hydrological drought.
2. High temperatures: Higher temperatures can increase evaporation rates, causing water sources to dry up more quickly and exacerbating drought conditions.
3. Changes in land use: Deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural activities can alter the natural hydrological cycle, leading to decreased water availability and increased susceptibility to drought.
4. Dam construction: The construction of dams can disrupt natural streamflow patterns and reduce water availability downstream, contributing to hydrological drought conditions.
5. Groundwater depletion: Over-extraction of groundwater for agricultural, industrial, or municipal purposes can lower water tables and reduce surface water availability, leading to hydrological drought.
6. Climate change: Climate change can result in shifts in precipitation patterns, increased temperatures, and changes in extreme weather events, all of which can contribute to the onset and persistence of hydrological drought.
How can hydrological drought be triggered by physical conditions
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