Posucha

Posucha is a Polish term referring to a prolonged period of unusually low precipitation, resulting in meteorological and agricultural drought conditions. While the general word drought in Polish is susza, posucha is commonly used to emphasize a dry spell that can affect soil moisture, crop growth, and water resources more acutely during the growing season. The duration and severity vary; posucha may last from several weeks to months, depending on regional climate and seasonal timing.

In meteorology, posucha describes a deficit of precipitation relative to long-term norms. It can lead to agricultural drought when soil moisture falls below thresholds needed for crops, affecting yields and forage availability. Hydrological effects may include reduced river flows, lower groundwater levels, and diminished reservoir storage.

Monitoring and assessment rely on drought indices such as the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and regionally adapted indicators, along with observations from national meteorological services. In Poland, organizations such as the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) monitor drought conditions and provide forecasts and warnings.

Causes of posucha include natural climate variability, atmospheric circulation patterns, and, on longer time scales, climate change, which can alter precipitation patterns and increase the frequency or intensity of dry spells. Impacts are most felt in agriculture, forestry, water supply, and fire risk.

Responses and adaptation measures include improved irrigation management, soil moisture conservation, selection of drought-tolerant crops, water use restrictions during dry periods, and early warning systems to mitigate losses.