Record U.S. drought raises concerns about wildfires, water and food prices

More than 61% of the contiguous U.S. is in moderate to exceptional drought, and NOAA says the Palmer Drought Severity Index reached its highest March level since records began in 1895.

Record drought conditions are present across much of the contiguous United States, with major stretches of the country reported as unusually dry. The U.S. Drought Monitor shows more than 61% of the Lower 48 in moderate to exceptional drought. NOAA reported that the Palmer Drought Severity Index hit its highest March level since records began in 1895. Key facts: - The U.S. Drought Monitor reports over 61% of the Lower 48 states are in moderate to exceptional drought, including 97% of the Southeast and roughly two-thirds of the West. - NOAA’s Palmer Drought Severity Index for March was the highest on record for that month and March ranked among the driest months in the historical record. - Federal records indicate record-low mountain snowpack in parts of the West, and the National Interagency Fire Center warned of higher-than-normal potential for significant fires in parts of the Southwest later this spring. Summary: Current conditions reflect an unusually widespread spring drought across the United States with low western snowpack and extensive dry areas in the Southeast. Officials and meteorologists reported that these factors raise concerns about elevated wildfire potential, pressures on water supplies, and possible impacts on agriculture and food prices. Undetermined at this time.