The researchers analyzed historical droughts in Australia between 850 and 2000 using multiple climate models and found that droughts in south-western and eastern Australia during the 20th century were longer on average than those in pre-industrial times.

They warned that Australia could soon face megadroughts lasting up to 20 years, with effects potentially worsened by climate change.

The researchers find it "confronting" that future droughts in Australia could be much longer than any experienced in recent times.

A study by researchers at the Australian National University (ANU) warns that megadroughts, which are naturally occurring and can last for 20 years or more, are becoming more likely in Australia due to human-caused climate change.

The researchers specifically focused on the Murray-Darling basin, Australia's largest agricultural area, and warned that the combination of natural droughts and climate change could lead to more severe and prolonged droughts in the region.

A megadrought is defined as an exceptionally severe, long-lasting, and widespread drought.

The text discusses the findings of a study which links human-induced climate change to longer droughts in the basin and southwestern Australia.

The researchers predict further rainfall declines and increased drought risks in the future.

To mitigate the impact of future droughts, they recommend Australians implement water storage and management plans, as well as establish community support networks.