Australia and the United States face very similar challenges in dealing with drought. Both countries cover a range of biophysical conditions, both are federations that provide considerable responsibility to state governments for water and land management, and both face the challenges in balancing rural industry and urban development, especially in relation to the allocation of water. Yet there are critical differences in their approaches to drought science and policy. Drought, Risk Management, and Policy: Decision Making under Uncertainty explores the complex relationship between scientific research and decision making with respect to drought in Australia and the United States. Risk Management, not Crisis Management Drawing on the work of respected academic researchers and policy practitioners, the book discusses the issues associated with decision making under uncertainty and the perspectives, needs, and expectations of scientists, policy makers, and resource users. Starting from the position that drought is a risk to be managed, it considers the implications of the predicted impacts of future climate change. The book also examines the policy responses to these challenges and the role of scientific input into the policy process. Contributors look at drought risk management in action and how end users in the community incorporate drought science into their decision making. The book concludes with lessons learned about science, policy, and managing uncertainty. Get Insight into the Relationship between Science and Policy—and How to Turn That into More Effective Decision Making Throughout, the contributors identify possible reasons for differences in the use and application of drought sciences and approach to policy between the two countries, offering valuable insight into the relationship between scientific advice and the policy process. They also highlight the challenges faced at the science–policy interface. Crossing international borders and disciplinary boundaries, this timely collection tackles drought policy development as part of the broader discussion about climate change. Although the focus is on Australia and the United States, many of the lessons learned are relevant for any country dealing with drought.

Addresses the three pillars of an integrated approach to drought risk reduction: monitoring and early warning and information delivery systems; vulnerability and impact assessment; and mitigation and response. Provides sound analyses of the growing challenges presented by drought events and the shortcomings and opportunities for drought policy and preparedness in the context of water-related stresses across many jurisdictions Discusses in-depth case studies from researchers and practitioners dealing with drought and water-sensitive issues at local, national, and global scales. Presents the new science, theory and state-of the-art methods that have emerged throughout the world since the publication of the first edition.

HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL EXTREME EVENTS Hydrometeorological Hazards: Interfacing Science and Policy Recent hydrometeorological extreme events have highlighted the increased exposure and vulnerability of societies and the need to strengthen the knowledge-base of related policies. Current research is focused on improving forecasting, prediction and early warning capabilities in order to improve the assessment of vulnerability and risks linked to extreme climatic events. Hydrometeorological Hazards: Interfacing Science and Policy is the first volume of a series which will gather scientific and policy-related knowledge on climate-related extreme events. Invited authors are internationally recognized experts in their respective fields. This volume reflects the most recent advances in science and policy within this field and takes a multidisciplinary approach. The book provides the reader with a state-of-the art account of flash floods, droughts, storms, and a comprehensive discussion focused on the cost of natural hazards, resilience and adaptation. This book will be an invaluable reference for advanced undergraduates taking courses with a focus on natural hazards, including climate-related extreme events. The book will also be of interest to postgraduates, researchers and policymakers in this field looking for an overview of the subject.