Flash drought
A flash drought is a type of drought characterized by its rapid onset, intensification, and severity over a relatively short timescale, usually within a few days or weeks.[1] This concept has evolved during the last decade as researchers have become more interested in understanding and mitigating its impacts.[1][2] Flash droughts differ from other drought categories such as meteorological, hydrological, agricultural, ecological, and socioeconomic droughts, in that they develop and intensify more quickly, posing unique challenges for monitoring, prediction, and mitigation.
History
Flash droughts have gained increasing attention from researchers and policymakers due to their significant impacts on agriculture and water resources.[1] The term "flash drought" was coined to describe the rapid onset and intensification of drought conditions, which set it apart from other, more conventional drought types that develop over longer periods. Early research focused on understanding the unique characteristics and drivers of flash droughts, while more recent studies have explored their impacts on agriculture, ecosystems, and water resources.[1]