Lake Chad is not shrinking but has actually seen increases in its water volume since the 1980s. While flooding risks are heightened by climate change and ongoing conflicts hinder community adaptation, initiatives focused on sustainable practices and conflict resolution are being implemented. Current studies show that the lake’s area has stabilized, despite changes in regional rainfall and ecological conditions.
Recent research indicates that Lake Chad is not diminishing as commonly believed; in fact, the lake’s water volume has increased since the 1980s. However, the region faces heightened flooding risks due to intense rainfall combined with the lasting effects of significant droughts. Additionally, ongoing conflicts impede communities from effectively adapting to climate-related changes.
The Lake Chad Basin, occupying 2.5 million square kilometers across eight nations, is vital for approximately 52 million people relying on its resources. The lake’s water level fluctuates due to rainfall variations within its closed drainage system. Seasonal changes dramatically affect the lake’s dimensions, with historical records showcasing a decline from over 25,000 km² in the 1960s to just 2,000 km² in the 1980s due to prolonged drought.
Current studies suggest stability in the lake’s extent over the last two decades, with an increase in groundwater storage. Recent data shows that Lake Chad’s total surface water area reached a maximum of 24,500 km² in 2024. Although the overall water volume has risen, the northern part of the lake has not fully recovered, attributed to vegetative growth and altered river inflows.
The unpredictable rainfall patterns caused by climate change exacerbate flooding risks. Significant flooding events occurred in 2022 and 2024, inflicting widespread damage and displacing millions. Research interpreted the 2022 flood to have been intensified by climate change, with predictions of similar floods occurring every 2-5 years due to increased precipitation.
Communities surrounding Lake Chad have cultivated adaptive strategies in response to changing conditions, including diverse agricultural practices and seasonal fishing. However, erratic rainfall complicates these methods, often resulting in unexpected floods that devastate crops. Additionally, conflict stemming from armed groups complicates traditional adaptation practices, limiting local farmers’ options.
The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is implementing the “Gender Transformative Climate Adaptation” initiative, which aims to alleviate the impacts of climate change and conflict by employing sustainable practices in agriculture, water management, and disaster risk reduction. They are promoting tree planting for ecosystem restoration and providing communities with drought-resistant seeds. Future infrastructure development and collaborations are essential to enhance resilience in the region, as ongoing insecurity and climate volatility threaten local stabilization efforts.
Research reveals that Lake Chad’s water volume has increased since the 1980s despite ongoing risks of flooding and conflict in the region. Communities are adapting to changing conditions through innovative agricultural and fishing practices, though challenges persist due to unpredictable climate patterns and security issues. Initiatives like those from the LWF seek to mitigate these impacts, emphasizing the need for strengthening community resilience to climate change and conflict. It is crucial for regional strategies to adapt to these evolving challenges to secure stability and sustainability in the Lake Chad Basin.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
