Occurence , severity and magnitude of hydrological drought in Zambia :impacts and implications
Date
1999
Authors
Sichingabula, Henry
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Abstract
Persistent occurrence of drought under increasing water supply demands for municipalities and agriculture, and under increased threat of global warming, requires increased understanding of drought characteristics and sustainable use of water resources. Using the theory of runs, several
hydroiogical drought parameters of frequency of occurrence, run length,
magnitude and run intensity, were investigated for the Kafue and Zambezi
rivers. Objectives were to (a) determine magnitude-frequency characteristics
of hydroiogical droughts; (b) determine some drought run parameters and
frequency of their occurrence; and (c) propose a new approach for increasing
Zambia's utilization of its water resources without jeopardizing international
relations with neighbouring countries. Better understanding of droughts and
assessment of Zambia's present and future water requirements will enable
planners and decision makers to bring increased economic benefits to citizens.
Zambia's drought and water scarcity problems are outlined and linked to some
proposed regional water projects designed to divert water from the Zambezi
River system. One possible solution to problems of drought and dwindling
water levels on Kafue River is proposed.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Hydrological drought--Zambia , Global warming --Zambia , Climate change--Zambia