Drought
In short
A period of abnormally low rainfall or water availability that lasts for days, months, or even years.
In plain words
It happens when an area does not get enough rain or snow for a long time. This causes water levels in rivers and lakes to drop significantly.
A simple example
A farmer finds that their soil is cracked and their crops have died because it has not rained for several months.
Why it matters
Droughts damage food supplies, kill livestock, and increase the risk of massive wildfires. They can also cause severe economic hardship for entire regions.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse a drought with a dry season, which is a normal, predictable period of low rainfall.