Health Tip: How Drought Can Harm Your Health

HealthDay News) -- Drought conditions occur when it doesn't rain for an extended period.

The lowered water supply can trigger wildfires and dust storms, which increase the amounts of small particles that float in the air. This can irritate the bronchial passages and lungs, worsening existing respiratory problems and raising the risk of respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

The agency says other potential consequences of drought include: