Droughts are creating new supply chain problems. This is what you need to know

Nov 25, 2022

Economic damage from droughts jumped by 63% in 2021 compared with the 20-year average, according to the World Meteorological Organization. Image: REUTERS/Christian Kraemer

Ewan Thomson

Senior Writer, Formative Content

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Droughts are becoming more frequent and lasting longer, which has dire consequences for transport on key rivers like the Rhine in Germany. Image: ESA.

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A birds eye view of low water levels on the Mississippi, with land surrounding the river.

October 2022: A lack of rainfall caused water levels on the Mississippi to reach lows not seen for a decade, significantly slowing barge traffic. Image: NASA.

Drought has contributed to the Yangtze river shrinking visibly year on year. Image: ESA.

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