This collection of research addresses drought vulnerability, mortality, risk assessment, and recovery processes across various regions, focusing on the interconnected impacts on hydropower, economies, human health, and ecosystem resilience. The work reveals how drought significantly reduces hydropower generation in the United States, leading to economic losses and increased greenhouse gas emissions from alternative power sources. It also highlights the disproportionate effects of climate change on mortality due to heat stress, particularly in the Middle East, North Africa, and poorer nations, where rising temperatures are expected to substantially increase mortality rates. In addition, the research assesses drought vulnerability through an array of socio-economic, climatic, and environmental indicators to provide a comprehensive view of regional risks. The studies also predict a future where drought risks are exacerbated by population growth and socio-economic vulnerabilities, particularly in Africa, suggesting that strategic planning and global cooperation are essential for enhancing climate resilience and safeguarding vulnerable populations. Also, the research also delves into the dynamics of drought recovery, examining how ecosystems and water systems respond to and recover from drought conditions. Innovative studies using remote sensing and hydrological models assess the resilience of terrestrial ecosystems and water systems in the contiguous U.S., exploring how water use efficiency and ecosystem recovery are influenced by drought severity and duration. These studies underscore the complexity of drought recovery, revealing that recovery times can extend significantly, depending on the severity and the ecological or hydrological characteristics of the affected regions. Together, these insights not only underscore the urgent need for integrated vulnerability assessments but also highlight the necessity for proactive adaptation and mitigation strategies to address the adverse effects of climate change on vulnerable populations worldwide.