Watch for Signs and Symptoms of Drought

Watch for signs and symptoms of drought
Concern	Signs and Symptoms?	Actions
Extreme heat	Heat exhaustion Heat stroke	Stay cool Stay hydrated Stay informed
Diminished food supplyexternal icon	Drought-damaged crops Healthy foods not readily available or more expensive	Maintain the healthiest diet possible Seek services of food banks or other resources if necessary
Poor air qualityexternal icon	Breathing problems Worsening asthma or other respiratory conditions Fatigue with exertion	Stay indoors Avoid strenuous outdoor activity Take prescribed medications Talk to your health care provider if symptoms worsen
Limited water supplyexternal icon	Lower lake and river levels Lower water levels in aquifers, thus affecting private wells Public restrictions on water use	Listen for local government official’s directions on how to conserve water Continue practicing proper sanitation Use recycled waterexternal icon for non-sanitary purposes Avoid swimming in warm, shallow waters For private well users: Know and obey federal, state, local restrictions on water use
Mental Healthexternal icon	Stress and Anxiety Depression	Consult with a mental health provider and/or your doctor.

Page last reviewed: May 2, 2014