Why Drought Preparedness Matters
The Dust Bowl of the 1930s was one of the worst droughts in U.S. history. In the United States, droughts affect Southwest and Midwest, but preparedness principles apply regardless of where you live.
The difference between a close call and a tragedy often comes down to preparation made weeks or months before the event. People who have rehearsed their evacuation routes, stocked their emergency kits, and established family communication plans consistently fare better than those who rely on improvisation under pressure.
What to Do Before a Drought
Before the threat arrives, your goal is to reduce risk, build supplies, and establish a clear plan. Start with a household meeting to assign roles — who grabs the emergency bag, who is responsible for pets, who picks up children from school if evacuation orders come during work hours.
Sign up for your local emergency alert system. Most counties have a free text and email notification service that will push drought warnings directly to your phone. This is faster and more reliable than TV or radio in the critical first minutes of a warning.
What to Do During a Drought
- Conserve water by fixing leaks and reducing usage.
- Store extra drinking water.
- Monitor local water restrictions.
- Listen to emergency broadcasts.
What to Do After a Drought
After a drought, resist the urge to return home or begin cleanup until authorities confirm it is safe. Document all damage with photos before making repairs or touching anything. Contact your insurance company immediately. If you are displaced, register with FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov — registration opens federal aid programs including temporary housing assistance, home repair grants, and low-interest disaster loans.
Monitor yourself and family members for signs of stress or trauma in the days and weeks following a drought. Crisis counseling and mental health resources are available through FEMA's Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990).
Most Affected Regions
Droughts most commonly affect Southwest and Midwest in the United States. Residents in these areas should have drought-specific plans and know their local warning systems.