MODULE 5 PART 3
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University of Florida *
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2200L
Subject
Geography
Date
Feb 20, 2024
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Pages
3
Uploaded by CommodoreDanger181
Module 5, Part 3: Maps That Describe Climate
Instructions In this module, you will read the information, watch the brief videos either embedded or given as links, and briefly answer the 'Stop and Think' Questions to turn in for grading. The questions are compiled here for Part 3 of the Hydrology and Drought Module. Please answer all questions.
Name: Paige Minkin Questions 1:
Write a definition for drought, in your own words. Drought is when there's not enough rain for a long time, causing water shortages and affecting nature, farming, and people's water sources. 2:
Which areas in the continental U.S. consistently received less precipitation than normal during January 2008? During January 2008, the central region of the continental U.S., spanning from North Dakota to Texas, consistently experienced below-average precipitation levels. 3
: Based on your explorations, describe the locations that you think were developing or experiencing drought by June of 2008. I believe that regions in California were undergoing drought conditions in June 2008, as this area typically faces increased wildfire activity during the summer, leading to water shortages in both the state and neighboring areas. 4
: If an area shows just one stream gage location with lower-than-normal streamflow, can you assume that the area is in drought? Why or why not? Describe one or more conditions besides drought that could account for low streamflow. The presence of a single stream gauge with lower-than-normal streamflow does not necessarily indicate drought for an entire area. Low streamflow can result from localized factors, seasonal variations, human activities like water abstraction, or infrastructure issues with the monitoring equipment. To accurately assess drought, a comprehensive analysis of multiple indicators, including precipitation patterns and soil moisture levels, is essential. 5
: Based on patterns in the streamflow data, predict which areas of the country are experiencing drought. At present, it's likely that the central region of the U.S. is undergoing drought conditions, especially considering the current streamflow patterns and the time of year, nearing January. 6
: How well did your predictions match the drought monitor map? Describe areas where your predictions were correct and areas where they did not match. The predictions aligned well with the Drought Monitor map, with accuracy noted in most regions. However, there were some discrepancies, particularly in certain southern states, including Louisiana. 7
: Of the two main types of data you examined
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precipitation and the streamflow
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which of the two seems to be a better predictor of drought conditions identified by the Drought Monitor layer? In predicting drought conditions identified by the Drought Monitor layer, precipitation appears to be a more reliable predictor compared to streamflow. Precipitation directly
affects soil moisture and water availability, while streamflow can be influenced by various factors, making it less direct in predicting overall drought conditions. 8
: Access and interpret the current PDSI map image
. Write a description of current drought status for areas across the U.S. The prevailing drought conditions are most pronounced in the southern regions, with a particular emphasis on Louisiana.
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