Refers to a prolonged period of dry weather or drought conditions. Often used in agricultural or meteorological contexts.
This year's drought caused great damage to the crops.
When dry weather continues, water shortages become a concern.
旱魃 specifically refers to a severe drought or water shortage, often with a stronger nuance of disaster.
welcome rain in a drought; long-awaited relief
Standard kanji spelling for drought or dry weather.
Kana spelling is understandable but less common than the kanji form.
Alternate kanji spelling; 旱 is a less common character for drought.
Compound of 干 (kan, 'dry') and 天 (ten, 'sky, weather'). The alternate kanji 旱 also means 'drought'. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the spelling is conventionally associated with the meaning.