Extent and Intensity of Extreme Drought in Some Parts of the Savanna Region of Nigeria

Abstract

This study is on the extent and intensity of extreme drought in some parts of the Savanna Region of Nigeria. The region is prone to drought occurrences. Data used were from 1941 to 2010 and for eight stations scattered over the region. The Bhalme and Mooley Drought Index (BMDI) was used to depict extreme droughts occurrence. This was with the intention of finding out the percentage of extreme drought occurrences over a 70 year period (1941-2010).Results showed that extreme droughts were confined to stations in the extreme north of the study area and for limited time during the study period. Apart from these, other findings were made and are in the study. Also the effects of droughts especially extreme and the mitigation measures were looked at.

Key Words: Extreme, Drought, Drought Intensity, Percentages, Sub-period