Drought and Health: A Messaging Framework for Public Health and Healthcare Providers

As one of the deadliest natural disasters in the United States, mounting evidence indicates that drought leads to several adverse health effects, including poor mental health, respiratory issues, degraded water quality, and increased wildfires (NOAA, 2022). Ongoing research continues to delve into the extensive health impacts of drought, highlighting the urgent need for resources to aid public health and healthcare professionals in addressing these impacts. Our team has created a messaging and response framework aimed at helping health professionals nationwide develop strategies based on their current drought status. This tool provides an overview of drought and its documented health effects, recommended partnerships to improve drought response and preparedness, and communication maps based on best practices using the U.S. Drought Monitor drought stages. Tailored for unique users and their audiences, this tool aids in crafting messages and response plans for public health and healthcare professionals whose patients are affected by drought. With the overarching goal of enhancing nationwide capacity to prepare for and address drought and its health consequences, this tool offers accessible and practical steps easily customizable to specific regions or practices.

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) U.S. Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters (2022). https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/billions/, DOI: 10.25921/stkw-7w73