Europe’s extreme drought is exacerbating food and energy crises

Rain forecast this week will not be enough to end Europe’s drought, which could be the worst the continent has had in 500 years.

Environment



16 August 2022

Satellite image of drought in western Europe

A satellite image from 9 August reveals the effect of high temperatures and low rainfall in northern France and southern England

European Union, Copernicus Sentinel-3 imagery

Europe is experiencing what may be its worst drought in 500 years, with river flows down by around a third on average. The drought, which is likely to have been intensified by global warming, is having a serious effect on food production and river transport at a time when there is already a food crisis and soaring energy costs due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

In much of Europe, …

source: newscientist.com