Handbook of drought indicators and indices

This handbook covers some of the most commonly used drought indicators/indices that are being applied across drought-prone regions, with the goal of advancing monitoring, early warning and information delivery systems in support of risk-based drought management policies and preparedness plans.

It is intended for use by general drought practitioners (for example, meteorological/hydrological services and ministries, resource managers and other decision-makers at various levels) and aims to serve as a starting point, showing which indicators/indices are available and being put into practice around the world.

The indicators and indices are categorised by type and ease of use, and grouped into the following classifications:

• meteorology;
• soil moisture;
• hydrology;
• remote sensing; and
• composite or modelled.