United States drought and precipitation trends

Drought conditions across the United States have shown varied trends, with some regions experiencing relief while others face intensification.

In late July, rainfall-driven improvements were noted in the South, Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Northeast. Specifically, moisture gains lifted much of Southeast Missouri out of severe drought, and heavy rains in the Texas Hill Country eased long-term drought, though they also triggered flash flooding. During this period, California’s major reservoirs were at or above historic averages, while Lake Powell and Lake Mead remained at historically low levels of approximately 22-27% capacity.

By mid-August, the situation remained mixed. While parts of the central nation and the East Coast saw relief—including Southern West Virginia officially moving out of drought status—the Western United States continued to face severe challenges. Extreme to exceptional drought persisted in interior Oregon, southern Idaho, Wyoming, the Great Basin, and Utah, with Lake Mead continuing to sit at historic lows. Meteorologists noted that blocking patterns preventing monsoon moisture were beginning to break down, providing some recent rainfall.