Record Drought Conditions
As of April 21, 2026, the continental United States has reached its highest level of drought on record for spring, with 62.78% of the country experiencing varying levels of drought. The worst-affected areas are the South, West, and Plains, with 94% of the Southeast facing severe or worse drought conditions.
The current drought conditions are exacerbated by a record-dry start to 2026, with precipitation levels less than 70% of average from January to March, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This is the lowest level of precipitation on record, surpassing the previous record set in 1910.
Wildfires and Water Shortages
The drought has led to an increase in wildfires, with at least 20 large fires burning across the region as of April 23, 2026. In Georgia, extreme drought covers 71% of the state, prompting a mandatory burn ban in 91 counties. The Highway 82 Fire in Brantley County has burned at least 54 structures, including homes, and forced evacuations.
In Florida, nearly 1,800 wildfires have charred parts of the state so far this year, according to the Florida Forest Service. The drought has also raised concerns about water shortages, particularly in the West, where many states rely on melted snowpack to feed reservoirs and rivers.
Regional Impact
The drought has significant implications for the regional economy and environment. In Colorado, the state climate center has reported the worst year for snowpack in recorded history, raising concerns about water shortages and the impact on the already-shrinking Colorado River.
The Colorado River provides water to tens of millions of people in seven Southwest states, and minimum inflow into Lake Powell over the coming months is expected to be just 29% of its historical average, according to a Bureau of Reclamation forecast.
Via ABC17News.com.
