Flooding Crisis Threatens Global Rice Production, New Study Warns
New research reveals that severe flooding is now a major threat to global rice production. The damage is increasing each year as extreme rainfall intensifies. As a result, billions of people face growing risks to food security.The study shows that even one week of full submergence can kill most rice plants. This danger continues to rise as climate change fuels stronger storms across key river basins.
Flooding Impacts Rice Yields
Scientists from Stanford University examined global rice yields from 1980 to 2015. They found that flooding reduced annual production by about 4.3 percent. This loss equals nearly 18 million tons of rice each year.The damage has grown faster since 2000. In addition, researchers expect even more intense flooding in the future. Their findings highlight an urgent and often overlooked threat.
Drought Adds Another Layer of Stress
Rice producers already understand how drought harms crops. The study confirms this, showing an 8.1 percent decline during drought years. However, the research also shows that deep or prolonged flooding can be just as destructive.Rice grows well in shallow water during early stages. However, complete submergence for seven days becomes deadly. Most plants cannot survive beyond this point, creating what the team calls “rice-killing floods.”
The Risks Are Highest
The researchers used global yield data, flood records, and soil moisture models. Their results show rising threats in India, China, Indonesia, North Korea, the Philippines, and Nepal. Some regions, such as India’s Pennar Basin, show increased yields because floodwater evaporates quickly.Flood-resistant rice varieties offer hope. These varieties may reduce losses in regions facing repeated flooding. However, the study also warns that rapid swings between drought and flooding can nearly double yield loss.Researchers emphasize the need to understand how combined climate stresses affect rice. This knowledge will help guide future farming strategies and protect a vital global food source.
