Water - Drought: Australia Flashcards
1
Q
What was the the Australian drought known as?
A
The Millennium Drought
The Big Dry
2
Q
How low was rainfall compared to the 20th century mean?
A
12.4% below mean from 1997-2009
3
Q
What % of Australia is affected by drought in a typical year?
A
30%
4
Q
Why is Australia so drought prone?
A
Subtropical ridge
Settled, dry conditions block storm tracks
Rainfall inconsistent
5
Q
How did the Big Dry affect agriculture?
A
Harmed over 50% of farmland
Food shortages
Wool, wheat + meat exports tanked
6
Q
What was Australian reservoir capacity reduced to?
A
Roughly 40%
