Evaluating the spatiotemporal patterns of drought characteristics in a semi-arid region of Limpopo Province, South Africa.

Drought is a complex phenomenon resulting from below-average rainfall and is characterized by frequency, duration, and severity, occurring at a regional scale with dire consequences, especially in semiarid environments. This study used the Reconnaissance Drought Index (RDI) to assess drought severity in two district municipalities in Limpopo Province. Rainfall and air temperature data from 12 stations covering 1970-2020 were obtained from the Agricultural Research Council.