Here's What to Do When Facing the Dry Season

When an area is hit by drought, several practical solutions can reduce damage and help communities adapt. These solutions usually focus on saving water, using it more efficiently, and making ecosystems more resilient. 

1. Water‑saving and conservation

People and industries can reduce daily water use by fixing leaks, using low‑flow taps and toilets, and avoiding unnecessary washing of cars or clothes. 

Governments can run public campaigns to educate citizens about “water‑wise” habits and impose temporary restrictions during extreme drought. 

2. Efficient irrigation and drought‑resistant agriculture

Farmers can switch from flood irrigation to drip irrigation, which delivers water directly to plant roots and cuts waste. 

Growing drought‑tolerant crops and improving soil health (less tilling, using cover crops and mulch) helps the land hold more water and survive dry periods. 

3. Rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge

Collecting rainwater from roofs into tanks or underground reservoirs provides extra water during dry seasons for home use or irrigation. 

Building infiltration basins or redirecting stormwater into the ground helps recharge aquifers and keeps groundwater levels higher in drought periods. 

4. Diversifying water sources

Communities can mix surface water, groundwater, and in some coastal areas desalination (turning sea water into drinkable water) to avoid total dependence on one source. 

In emergencies, water trucking or temporary reservoirs can deliver drinking water to villages or refugee camps when local wells and rivers dry up.