Why are dams important during periods of drought?

Dams play a critical role during periods of drought by serving as reservoirs that store water for later use. This storage capability allows for the regulation of water supply even when natural sources like rivers and lakes are running low due to insufficient rainfall.

By capturing rainwater and runoff during wetter seasons, dams ensure that there is a reserve of water available for agricultural irrigation, municipal water supply, and even industrial needs when drought conditions arise. This strategic storage helps mitigate the impacts of water scarcity, supporting both human needs and ecosystems reliant on consistent water flow.

The other options, while they illustrate additional benefits of dams, do not directly address the primary function of water storage during drought conditions. For example, while recreational opportunities and flood prevention are valuable aspects of dam management, they do not specifically facilitate water availability in times of low rainfall. Similarly, the provision of electricity, while important, is not the primary reason dams are particularly vital during drought periods.