Water risks are widespread. The same region can swing from drought to flood to poor water quality within a single year. 

• Around 11% of rainfed cropland and 14% of pastureland face frequent drought.

• Over 60% of irrigated cropland experiences high water stress.

• Excess water is just as damaging, affecting roughly 10% of agricultural land through waterlogging each year.

These risks reinforce each other: dry, compacted soil sheds rain instead of absorbing it, so drought sets the stage for flooding, while degraded wetlands and rivers lose their natural ability to regulate water in the first place.

Addressing water risks isn't solely a question of having the right data. It's whether the information reaches the right person in time to influence a decision. A recent OECD blog explores exactly this.

Agriculture uses 54-60% of Colombia's fresh water, yet only 6% of cropland is irrigated, leaving farmers exposed to floods or shortages depending on region and season.

Flood maps and forecasts already exist; what's missing is planning and implementation based on this information. Local agroclimatic committees are helping to fill that gap, turning forecasts into plain advice on planting and irrigation timing.

Egypt's water demand outstrips supply, and agriculture absorbs about 76% of what's available. The country has responded with sustained investment: modernising irrigation, expanding drainage-water reuse and nearly doubling water-use efficiency since 2000.

These efforts are paying off, but efficiency gains alone have limits. If farmers irrigate more land or grow thirstier crops, the savings can be offset. Managing scarcity long-term means pairing efficiency with stronger tools to manage demand.