By Jamie Martin
Researchers have introduced a new framework called “thirstwaves” to measure and manage high evaporative demand, a condition where crops lose water faster than it can be replaced. This term was coined by Meetpal Kukal from the University of Idaho and Mike Hobbins of CU Boulder to describe long-lasting, extreme water demand situations.
Their study, published March 20 in Earth’s Future, looked at four decades of weather data across the U.S. Thirstwaves occur when evaporative demand stays above the 90th percentile for at least three straight days. Unlike traditional models that focus on average conditions, thirstwaves highlight short-term but intense stress periods.
According to Kukal, “As far as water consumption by vegetation is concerned, including agricultural crops, there are other variables besides temperature that are equally, if not more, important, and that includes humidity, wind speed and solar radiation.”
The study showed that areas like the Midwest, though moderate in average water use, experience high thirstwave extremes. These events can overwhelm irrigation systems, especially during heatwaves or dry spells, making water management more difficult.
To address this, Kukal is creating a decision-support tool for Idaho farmers. This dashboard will factor in evaporative extremes and help guide better irrigation decisions.
The researchers observed that all three components of thirstwaves—intensity, frequency, and duration—have worsened over the years, signaling a growing challenge for agriculture.
“This idea of thirstwaves I think is really going to catch on,” said Hobbins. “It’s a very powerful metric and it’s a crucial distinction from heatwaves.”
With more precise tracking and response, farmers can better adapt to water shortages and protect their crops.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-songbird839
Categories: National