Environmental sensitivity and resistance to the intensity and frequency of drought phenomena in Europe

Understanding the spatial and temporal dynamics of drought is critical for addressing the growing challenge of water scarcity across Europe. This study employs the concept of landscape hydric potential (LHP) to regionalize European water retention and investigate the regions most affected by drought over time. Building upon insights from our previous work, "Rich North, Poor South - Regionalization of European Water Retention," we examine how hydric potential varies across Europe, with a focus on the Mediterranean and Eastern European regions where drought severity has intensified.

The analysis integrates long-term hydrometeorological data, land-use changes, and socio-economic drivers to determine the key factors influencing drought dynamics. We hypothesize that human activities—such as land use, water management practices, and urbanization—are significant amplifiers of drought presence, potentially outweighing natural climatic variability in some regions. By disentangling these drivers, we aim to provide a nuanced understanding of how anthropogenic impacts intersect with natural factors to exacerbate drought conditions.

Our findings highlight the urgency of sustainable land and water management policies to mitigate the effects of drought, particularly in vulnerable regions. Furthermore, the study underscores the value of the LHP framework in guiding regional adaptation strategies, fostering resilience to water scarcity, and ensuring equitable water distribution across Europe in the face of climate change.