Analysis of severe droughts in California and Syria offers clues to understanding the adaptation gap between rich,stable countries and poorer,less stable ones.At first glance,California and Syria appear to have little in common other than Mediterranean climates.But two new studies—focusing on severe droughts in these places half a planet apart—highlight a yawning gap1in the abilities of developed and many Analysis of severe droughts in California and Syria offers clues to understanding the adaptation gap between rich, stable countries and poorer, less stable ones. At first glance, California and Syria appear to have little in common other than Mediterranean climates. Buttwo new studies- focusing on severe droughts in these places half a planet apart-highlight a yawning gap1in the abilities of developed and many