Key issues in drought preparedness: Reflections on experiences and strategies in the United States and selected countries

Droughts continue to be a major natural hazard. Areas around the world face a pressing question: Are we prepared for another major drought given the fact that the frequency and intensity of droughts fall far outside our contemporary experience? This question is complex since it involves risk management issues beyond traditional crisis management, which are related to climate change, socioeconomic conditions, infrastructures, institutions and behaviors, and the use of drought forecasts. These issues must be studied in a holistic framework considering the interdependence among social, economic, technical, and environmental factors that jointly challenge drought preparedness. This paper provides synthesis of relevant studies and expects to shed light on an integrated research agenda for drought preparedness, which is urgently needed for our societies.