Comprehensive Review of Meteorological Drought in Iraq

Drought is a serious environmental phenomenon characterized by a severe and continuous decrease in rainfall rates and elevated temperatures, which leads to a reduction in soil moisture and serious climatic, environmental, and economic damage. It manifests in various forms, including meteorological, agricultural, and hydrological droughts, each linked to specific causes and effects. Monitoring and assessing drought depend on the use of suitable indicators, which vary in effectiveness depending on regional climatic and geographical conditions. Drought is a recurring problem in Iraq, which is located in arid and semi-arid regions. Continued drought leads to a scarcity of water resources. A review of previous studies shows the existence of research gaps, most notably the lack of comprehensive studies comparing different drought indicators to determine the most appropriate ones for the conditions of Iraq, especially the southern regions, which are characterized by scarcity of rain and high evaporation rates. Therefore, choosing the most appropriate indices is necessary for a more accurate understanding of the drought phenomenon and for developing appropriate strategies for water resource management and adaptation to this recurring event. This situation confirms the urgent need to conduct in-depth studies to address these gaps and provide practical solutions that enhance the sustainability of natural resources in the region.