The recent rains have brought some relief to the state of Durango, significantly reducing the extent of the drought. According to a report issued this Monday, August 4, by the National Water Commission (Conagua), only 10 municipalities currently remain under moderate drought conditions, which represents a notable improvement compared to previous records.
This improvement in water conditions is attributed to the seasonal rainfall, which has contributed to raising soil moisture levels, partially recovering water bodies, and favoring agricultural cycles in several regions. The 10 municipalities experiencing drought are: Canatlán, Simón Bolívar, Guanaceví, Ocampo, El Oro, San Bernardo, San Dimas, San Juan de Guadalupe, Tamazula, and Tepehuanes.
What does it mean to be in a moderate drought?
According to the North American Drought Monitor (NADM) Drought Intensity Classification, officially used by the Mexican government, the moderate drought category (D1) implies a series of significant but not extreme impacts. These include some damage to crops and pastures, a high risk of wildfires, and reduced flow rates in rivers, streams, waterholes, and wells. At this stage, voluntary water use restrictions are recommended, although mandatory measures have not yet been imposed.
The classification system includes other milder or more severe stages, which allow monitoring the progress or retreat of the phenomenon:
Abnormally dry (D0): Not considered a drought category, but indicates low moisture conditions that may affect planting or crop growth.
Severe drought (D2): Field losses increase, water shortages worsen, and mandatory restrictions are often implemented.
Extreme Drought (D3): Widespread damage is reported in the agricultural sector, with critical water shortages and an extreme risk of fires.
Exceptional Drought (D4): The most serious situation, with catastrophic losses, a complete lack of water in surface and underground bodies, and a potential emergency scenario.
Although the reduction to only 10 municipalities in moderate drought represents a positive step forward for Durango, authorities and specialists continue to monitor weather conditions and continue to call for responsible water use practices, especially in rural and agricultural areas where water resources remain limited.
Source: oem
