Over 40% of Europe is currently experiencing varying levels of drought

Europe is facing yet another climate-driven drought, with hotspots like Spain, Cyprus, and Greece under severe alert. Hydropower, agriculture, and tourism are already feeling the pressure after an unusually hot spring.

A new report by the European Drought Observatory (EDO) reveals that over 40% of Europe is experiencing some degree of drought, as record-breaking spring temperatures driven by climate change take a toll. Areas under the highest alert include parts of south-eastern Spain, Greece, Cyprus, and the south-eastern Balkans. These regions are dealing with dry soil, reduced rainfall, and stressed vegetation.

Popular tourist destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos are struggling with water shortages, with water being shipped in or sourced via desalination. Experts say overtourism and poor planning are exacerbating the crisis, though agriculture remains the largest consumer of water, especially in drought-affected countries like Greece.

Beyond the Mediterranean, drought warnings extend across Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, and parts of northern and eastern Europe. Ukraine's rapidly warming climate threatens global grain supplies, while other countries are also grappling with reduced crop yields and environmental stress.

Drought conditions persist beyond Europe, affecting regions of Türkiye, the Middle East, and northern Africa, many of which have been under warning for over a year. The energy sector is also impacted, as drought and erratic rainfall challenge hydropower generation.

Climate experts confirm that global warming is intensifying droughts by raising temperatures and altering rainfall patterns. As Europe heads into summer, the continent’s capacity to recover from dry spells appears increasingly compromised.

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