New satellite data reveals a rapid decline in freshwater across the globe, driven by shifting rainfall, rising temperatures, and overuse. A study published in Science Advances warns of accelerating water loss on land, forming vast “mega-drying” zones. This poses urgent threats to food, ecosystems, and global stability.

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• 75% of global population in 101 countries now losing freshwater
• Drying continents contribute more to sea level rise than melting ice sheets
• Mega-drought zones forming in Northern Canada, Russia, Central America, Middle East, South & Southeast Asia
• Surface water in rivers and lakes declining; reliance on groundwater rising dangerously
• Groundwater depletion accelerating in dry regions; long-term reserves shrinking
• Dry regions increasing; wetting zones limited to parts of Sub-Saharan Africa
• Global water cycle facing imbalance due to shifting precipitation, evaporation, streamflow
• Food security, climate migration, and conflict risks growing sharply
• Study urges urgent global action to manage water and climate risks
• Scientists warn impacts will worsen as climate change intensifies