Droughts and Floods Theory

Some archaeologists suggest that a series of droughts and floods caused the collapse of Hohokam society.  Tree ring and stream flow data show that the Hohokam endured strong floods in 1358 and, later, in the 1380s.  These floods most likely caused widespread damage to the Hohokam canal system.  But the same data also suggest a strong flood in 899, which the Hohokam weathered well.  While flood and drought were serious issues, it is unlikely that they were the sole factor in the Hohokam collapse.  They created a significant vulnerability, which combined with other vulnerabilities, may have contributed to the collapse.