Globally, agricultural productivity faces substantial annual reductions owing to the damaging effects of severe drought conditions. Drought stress profoundly impacts plant physiological functions, ultimately diminishing crop yields. In response to water scarcity, plants activate numerous physiological and molecular adjustments, many of which aid in adapting to these challenging environments.Water deficit induces modifications in plant morphology, anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, often leading to reduced transpiration and more efficient utilization of internal water reserves. These responses are driven by complex molecular mechanisms, including stress signaling pathways, transcriptional reprogramming, and metabolic shifts. This review systematically explores the underlying causes and effects of drought-induced stress, clarifying how drought impacts plant development from the molecular to the whole-plant level. The main finding is that plant survival under drought depends on a multifaceted integration of stress avoidance and tolerance strategies, including stomatal regulation, osmotic adjustment, and antioxidant defense. A thorough understanding of these interconnected responses is paramount for developing effective strategies to mitigate the negative consequences of drought. This review synthesizes current knowledge to identify critical research gaps and outlines promising agricultural implications, highlighting the need for integrated approaches combining advanced breeding, omics technologies, and sustainable management practices to enhance crop resilience and ensure global food security in a changing climate.
