The Mayan civilization experienced a decline starting in the 8th century CE, resulting in the abandonment of cities. Factors such as local wars, invasions, disease, and notably climate change, played a role. A study of a stalagmite near Mayan cities revealed at least 44 instances of extreme drought during the last 200 years of the Classic Period. From 870 to 1100 CE, eight extreme drought events affected the Yucatan Peninsula, with the longest drought lasting 13 years. Such extreme weather patterns are linked to agricultural dependency.
Researchers have now discovered that between 870 and 1100 CE, there were eight extreme drought events on the Yucatan Peninsula, one of the core areas of Mayan civilization.
The first of these droughts began in 894. It was followed by a year with normal rainfall, then another five consecutive years with scarcely any rain.
Among them, however, the impact of climate on these agrarian-based societies stands out.
They define an extreme drought as three or more consecutive years with the dry season extended by at least three months, or even years with no rainy season at all.
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