Review of climate change impact on water availability in the USA and Africa
Emmanuel Augustine Etukudoh, Valentine Ikenna Ilojianya, Olushola Babatunde Ayorinde, Cosmas Dominic Daudu, Adedayo Adefemi, Ahmed Naseh Ahmed Hamdan
Abstract
This research paper reviews the impact of climate change on water availability in the USA and Africa. Global climate change trends reveal rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increasing extreme events, all influencing water resources. The diverse regional contexts in the USA encompass issues such as prolonged droughts, changing snowmelt patterns, and coastal vulnerabilities. In Africa, heightened susceptibility arises from dependence on rain-fed agriculture, contributing to increased aridity and intensified rainfall. Temperature changes and precipitation patterns emerge as critical factors influencing water availability, necessitating adaptive strategies. Both regions implement water conservation, infrastructure development, sustainable practices, and broader policies addressing emission reduction and community-based adaptation. Policy implications underscore the need for integrated water resource governance, climate-resilient infrastructure, and international collaboration. This review provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved, offering insights for effective adaptation and mitigation measures in the face of evolving climate challenges.