Medidas para afrontar la sequía en México: una visión retrospectiva

Drought is one of the most complex and natural phenomena that affects more people in the world. The aim of this article is to present a review of the main measures that have been implemented in the different stages of the history of Mexico (pre-hispanic, colonial, XIX, XX and XXI) to prevent and mitigate the impacts of drought in the society. As part of the methodology used was a classification of the measures taken in each period, grouped into two broad categories: preventive measures (those that have been in place long before it happens a drought) and reactive (which have been taken during the event of drought); in turn, both types of measures are further subdivided in social, technological and governmental measures. The originality of this contribution is based on that in spite of the historic struggle of Mexico vis-a-vis the drought, this has not stopped will cease to be a problem, so it is substantial, that both the government authorities and the population in general are aware of the vulnerability in the face of danger, and of the importance of preventive measures and adaptation that will lead to a proper risk management. It is concluded that, although at present we have greater scientific knowledge and technological development to cope with drought, these tools do not constitute itself the solution to the problem, but, rather, they are the complement of other actions and strategies of political, economic and social nature which together help to counteract the negative effects of the phenomenon.