Prefectures vulnerable to water scarcity are not evenly distributed across China

Abstract Water scarcity has become a significant constraint to sustainable development. While the water been widely assessed, its social impacts are infrequently evaluated. Here, we developed framework integrate and climate sensitivity examine vulnerability at prefecture level across China. Results showed that 41% of 301 prefectures were highly stressed 30% sensitive changing climate. We identified 44 hotspot using combination high sensitivity. mapped gradient in stress these found with ‘very high’ primarily distributed Central Southwest These vulnerable home more than 58 million people. The consideration both management units potential formulate policies regarding resources management.