Predictors of residence in areas that experience drought and concern about drought in the United States

While some natural hazard events are well studied, drought has been relatively neglected. This is notable given that drought is expected to increase in frequency and intensity in the future. This study investigated the associations between various socioeconomic and demographic factors and living in an area that experiences drought, as well as perspectives related to drought in the United States.

A survey was used to examine drought experiences and perceptions by asking (1) if individuals lived in an area that experiences drought, (2) whether they consider drought to be a natural disaster, and (3) if they worried about drought negatively impacting them. Surveys were administered from April-June 2024.

2989 individuals completed the survey. Regression results suggest the odds of living in an area that experiences drought are higher for select older populations, for those with higher levels of education, and for those residing in rural areas. For those who do live in areas that experience drought (n = 1655), most consider drought to be a natural disaster, but the odds of worrying about being negatively impacted by drought are significantly lower for those ages 55-64 and identifying politically as Republican or Independent.

Certain populations reported higher odds of living in an area that experiences drought, but lower odds of reporting concern about the negative health impacts. Similar phenomena have been observed with other natural hazards, such as hurricanes.

Results can aid public health researchers and practitioners in focusing drought preparedness and educational efforts.