Drought and water scarcity are a major hazard for harvest and food security, particularly in Africa and parts of Europe. Many of these regions are characterized by very complex hydrological systems that often exhibit extreme behavior, such as strong monsoon seasons or extended drought. Commonly used models and analysis techniques often do not represent these processes, or at best they are seldom tested for adequacy and robustness. The complexity of the water cycle contrasts strongly with the poor data availability, which limits the number of analysis techniques and methods available to researchers. An understanding of hydro-meteorological variability, drought monitoring and warning, and drought mitigation and adaptation strategies can reduce adverse impacts of drought, and improve harvest and food security.

This session seeks contributions on recent advances in science as well as in practical application, including:
- the development, analysis, and application of new data collection techniques, such as environmental sensor networks, satellite imagery and participatory data collection methods, but also human capacity development;
- new understanding of hydrological processes that are characteristic for tropical and dryland countries, such as large scale droughts and other extremes;
- benefits, experiences and challenges in drought monitoring and the use of drought forecasts in warning;
- drought adaptation strategies to improve natural resources management and/or increase harvest & food security.