New findings from studying over two decades of satellite observations reveal that Earth's continents have experienced unprecedented freshwater loss since 2002, driven by climate change, unsustainable groundwater use and extreme droughts. The study, led by Arizona State University and published today in Science Advances, highlights the emergence of four continental-scale "mega-drying" regions, all located in the northern hemisphere, and warns of severe consequences for water security, agriculture, sea level rise and global stability.
Land development almost always “improves” drainage. Construction and farming activities both lead to large areas where rainfall goes into rivers rather than infiltrating into the ground. Almost all areas need to be more mindful of including intentional infiltration points for rainwater to seep into the ground and replenish aquifers.