Mitigating the Economic and Social Effects of Drought in Kamloops
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29173/bcelnfe712Keywords:
adaptation, drought, semi-arid climate, vulnerability, water restrictionsAbstract
Drought, defined as a prolonged period of below normal precipitation, which may result in a water shortage, poses significant environmental and socio-economic challenges. Located in the interior of British Columbia, the city of Kamloops is particularly susceptible to drought due to its semi-arid climate and increasing exposure to climate-induced temperature variability. These conditions place considerable strain on the region’s water resources, ecosystems, and economic stability. By integrating primary data collected through a community survey, the study aims to evaluate the perceived effects of drought and corresponding water restrictions, identify key areas of vulnerability, and assess the viability of local adaptation strategies. As droughts become an increasingly persistent feature of the regional climate, evidence-based, community-oriented approaches will be essential to support long-term resilience and sustainable water management in Kamloops.
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