Researchers at the University of Arkansas at Monticello have developed an online mapping tool called the Arkansas Vegetation Drought Explorer, which uses satellite imagery to track drought levels in the state over multiple decades. Led by assistant professor Hamdi Zurqani, the team hopes that this tool will help environmental scientists, agriculture sectors, insurance companies, and policymakers better understand and predict drought patterns in Arkansas. The tool could also be used in other regions facing similar drought issues, such as Sub-Saharan Africa.
Through their research, the team discovered that while shorter-term data showed more frequent droughts in Arkansas, analyzing longer time periods revealed that some areas may actually be improving in terms of resilience to climate change. They also identified specific regions in the state where dry spells, flash droughts, and historical weather patterns are more prevalent.
Flash droughts, characterized by low precipitation and increased temperatures, wind speeds, and radiation, can have devastating effects on agriculture and forestry operations. These events are an area of ongoing research, with scientists aiming to better understand their impacts.
The findings of this research were published in the Ecological Indicators Journal, shedding light on the importance of studying and predicting drought patterns in the face of climate change. By utilizing tools like the Arkansas Vegetation Drought Explorer, researchers hope to mitigate the impacts of drought on various sectors and improve overall preparedness for future climate-related challenges.
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