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Can drought make you sick?

Despite its rainy reputation, the Pacific Northwest is facing a surprising and growing reality – drought. And experts warn that it’s not going away anytime soon.

As our climate continues to change, droughts in the region are becoming more frequent and intense. While we often associate drought with dry lawns and thirsty crops, it can also take a serious toll on your health.

 

What is a drought?

A drought is a prolonged stretch of unusually dry weather that can lead to water shortages, crop damage, and a higher risk of wildfires. But a drop in rainfall isn’t the only factor. Several other factors can contribute to drought conditions:

  • Reduced snowpack. Much of the Pacific Northwest’s water supply comes from mountain snow that melts in the spring and summer. Less snow means less runoff to fill our rivers, lakes, and aquifers.
  • Higher temperatures. Hotter weather speeds up evaporation, drying out soil and surface water more quickly.
  • Changing climate patterns. Shifts in the jet stream, ocean currents (such as El Niño and La Niña) and other climate trends can disrupt weather patterns and lead to long dry spells.
  • Human impact. Overuse of water for agriculture, industry, and urban development puts added pressure on water supplies. Deforestation and land-use changes can also make it harder for the ground to hold moisture.
  • Soil conditions. Already dry or compacted soil doesn’t absorb water well. As a result, more water runs off it, making drought recovery slower and more difficult.

 

How does drought impact the Pacific Northwest?

Drought’s effects are becoming more apparent across the Pacific Northwest, impacting our communities, ecosystems and water supply.

  • According to the S. Drought Monitor, nearly 70% of the PNW is currently experiencing moderate to extreme drought conditions.
  • In Washington state, about 78% of the state is affected by drought. In Idaho, that number is 86%.
  • Washington has issued a drought declaration for the third consecutive year – an unprecedented streak.
  • Streamflow runoff is well below average, making it harder to refill reservoirs and supply water for farms and cities. It also raises stream temperatures, which can harm fish and aquatic life.
  • Persistent dry conditions have lengthened the wildfire season, and the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) predicts above-average fire risk through at least September.
  • Temperatures across the region are higher than normal, adding stress to already strained water systems.

 

How does drought affect your health?

The health impacts of drought can be just as serious as the environmental effects – especially when extended stretches of dry conditions overlap with extreme heat and wildfire smoke.

One of the most direct health impacts from drought is poor air quality. Dry, windy conditions can stir up dust and allergens, while wildfire smoke fills the air with fine particles. Together, these can trigger or worsen asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory problems – even in otherwise healthy individuals.

Other ways drought can make you sick include:

  • Dehydration and heat-related illnesses. With higher temps and less water available, the risk of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dehydration increase – especially for people who work or exercise outdoors.
  • Waterborne illnesses. Lower water levels and warmer temps can lead to higher concentrations of pollutants and harmful microorganisms in rivers, lakes, and drinking water. That means a greater risk of gastrointestinal illnesses, diarrhea, and exposure to toxic algae.
  • Skin problems. Drier air and limited access to water can irritate skin, trigger eczema flare-ups, and increase the risk of bacterial skin infections.
  • Mental health strain. Living through a long drought can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression, especially for communities that depend on farming or outdoor livelihoods. Water restrictions, heat, and fire threats can also add to daily stressors and affect overall mental well-being.

 

Who is most at risk for drought-related illness?

While drought affects everyone, some groups are especially vulnerable, including:

  • Children, who are more sensitive to heat and breathe more air per pound of body weight.
  • People with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, like asthma, COPD, or heart disease.
  • Older adults who may have trouble regulating body temperature and may take medications that increase the risk of dehydration.
  • Outdoor workers, including farm workers, landscapers and construction crews, who are regularly exposed to heat, dust, and smoke.

 

What can I do to stay healthy during a drought?

You can’t control the weather, but you can take steps to protect your health:

  • Drink plenty of water—even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks, which can dehydrate you. Learn more about the dangers of dehydration.
  • Monitor local air quality using tools like the EPA’s AirNow or your favorite weather app. Limit outdoor activity when air quality is poor.
  • Protect yourself from smoke. Keep windows closed and use a HEPA air filter indoors. If you must go outside, wear an N95 mask if smoke is heavy. Indigo offers more tips on how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
  • Follow water safety advisories. Before swimming in lakes or rivers, check with your local health department for any pollution or toxic algae warnings.
  • Conserve water. At home, fix leaks, shorten showers, and limit (or eliminate) lawn watering to ease strain on community water supplies.

 

Indigo is here – rain or shine

Drought is a becoming a fact of life in the Pacific Northwest – and so are the health concerns that come with it. If you’re dealing with heat-related symptoms, breathing problems or even stress, Indigo Urgent Care is here to help.

You can walk in, book a same-day or next-day appointment online, or schedule a face-to-face Virtual Care appointment. We’re open 8 am to 8 pm, every day, so you can get care when you need it most.

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