U.S. drought reaches record extent for this time of year, federal data shows
The Facts
- Drought in the contiguous United States has reached record levels for this time of year, according to weather data.
- More than 61% of the Lower 48 states is in moderate to exceptional drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
- The U.S. Drought Monitor data cited in the reports show 97% of the Southeast and about two-thirds of the West are in moderate to exceptional drought.
- The share of the Lower 48 in moderate to exceptional drought is the highest for this time of year since the U.S. Drought Monitor began in 2000.
- NOAA's Palmer Drought Severity Index reached its highest March level since records began in 1895.
- March was the third-driest month on record overall in NOAA's Palmer Drought Severity Index data, behind July and August 1934.
- Meteorologists said the drought is a bad sign for the upcoming wildfire season, food prices and western water issues.
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Context
What makes this drought notable right now?
The reports say the contiguous U.S. has reached record drought levels for this time of year, and more than 61% of the Lower 48 is in moderate to exceptional drought — the highest share for this point in the calendar since the U.S. Drought Monitor began in 2000 Aol,Philadelphia Inquir….
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Independent coverage (20)
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