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National Integrated Drought Information System
The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) is updated each Thursday to show the location and intensity of drought across the country. This map shows the drought conditions of the Colorado River Basin watershed, using a five-category system, from Abnormally Dry (D0) conditions to Exceptional Drought (D4). The USDM is a joint effort of the National Drought Mitigation Center, USDA, and NOAA.
This map shows precipitation for the past 30 days as a percentage of the historical average (1991–2020) for the same time period. Green/blue shades indicate above-normal precipitation, while brown shades indicate below-normal precipitation.
This map shows the average maximum daily temperature for the past 30 days compared to the historical average (1991–2020) for the same 30 days. Negative values (blue hues) indicate colder than normal temperatures, and positive values (red hues) indicate warmer than normal temperatures.
| Value | Map Hex Color | % of Colorado River Basin | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| D0 – Abnormally Dry | #ffff00 | 0 | Abnormally Dry Abnormally Dry (D0) indicates a region that is going into or coming out of drought. |
| D1 – Moderate Drought | #ffcc99 | 0 | Moderate Drought Moderate Drought (D1) is the first of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. |
| D2 – Severe Drought | #ff6600 | 0 | Severe Drought Severe Drought (D2) is the second of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. |
| D3 – Extreme Drought | #ff0000 | 0 | Extreme Drought Extreme Drought (D3) is the third of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. |
| D4 – Exceptional Drought | #660000 | 0 | Exceptional Drought Exceptional Drought (D4) is the most intense drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. |
| Total Area in Drought (D1–D4) | dmtotal | 0 | Total Area in Drought (D1–D4) Percent area of this watershed that is currently in drought (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. |
| Range | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0% - 25% | #8c510a | Precipitation was only 0% to 25% of the historical average for this location, compared to the same date range from 1991–2020. |
| 25% - 50% | #bf812d | 25%–50% of Normal Precipitation was 25% to 50% of the historical average for this location, compared to the same date range from 1991–2020. |
| 50% - 75% | #dfc27d | 50%–75% of Normal Precipitation was 50% to 75% of the historical average for this location, compared to the same date range from 1991–2020. |
| 75% - 100% | #f6e8c3 | 75%–100% of Normal Precipitation was 75% to 100% of the historical average for this location, compared to the same date range from 1991–2020. |
| Range | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 100% - 150% | #c7eae5 | 100%–150% of Normal Precipitation was 100% to 150% of the historical average for this location, compared to the same date range from 1991–2020. |
| 150% - 200% | #80cdc1 | 150%–200% of Normal Precipitation was 150% to 200% of the historical average for this location, compared to the same date range from 1991–2020. |
| 200% - 300% | #35978f | 200%–300% of Normal Precipitation was 200% to 300% of the historical average for this location, compared to the same date range from 1991–2020. |
| 300% - | #01665e | >300% of Normal Precipitation was greater than 300% of the historical average for this location, compared to the same date range from 1991–2020. |
| Range | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| - -8 | #0404ff | >8°F Below Normal The average maximum temperature was more than 8°F colder than normal for this location. |
| -8 - -6 | #2166ac | 6–8°F Below Normal The average maximum temperature was 6–8°F colder than normal for this location. |
| -6 - -4 | #4393c3 | 4–6°F Below Normal The average maximum temperature was 4–6°F colder than normal for this location. |
| -4 - -3 | #92c5de | 3–4°F Below Normal The average maximum temperature was 3–4°F colder than normal for this location. |
| -3 - -1 | #d1e5f0 | 1–3°F Below Normal The average maximum temperature was 1–3°F colder than normal for this location. |
| -1 - 0 | #ffffff | 0–1°F Below Normal The average maximum temperature was 0–1°F colder than normal for this location. |
| Range | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0 - 1 | #ffffff | 0–1°F Above Normal The average maximum temperature was 0–1°F warmer than normal for this location. |
| 1 - 3 | #fddbc7 | 1–3°F Above Normal The average maximum temperature was 1–3°F warmer than normal for this location. |
| 3 - 4 | #f4a582 | 3–4°F Above Normal The average maximum temperature was 3–4°F warmer than normal for this location. |
| 4 - 6 | #d6604d | 4–6°F Above Normal The average maximum temperature was 4–6°F warmer than normal for this location. |
| 6 - 8 | #b2182b | 6–8°F Above Normal The average maximum temperature was 6–8°F warmer than normal for this location. |
| 8 - | #800000 | >8°F Above Normal The average maximum temperature was more than 8°F warmer than normal for this location. |
The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) is updated each Thursday to show the location and intensity of drought across the country. This map shows the drought conditions of the Colorado River Basin watershed, using a five-category system, from Abnormally Dry (D0) conditions to Exceptional Drought (D4). The USDM is a joint effort of the National Drought Mitigation Center, USDA, and NOAA.
This map shows precipitation for the past 30 days as a percentage of the historical average (1991–2020) for the same time period. Green/blue shades indicate above-normal precipitation, while brown shades indicate below-normal precipitation.
This map shows the average maximum daily temperature for the past 30 days compared to the historical average (1991–2020) for the same 30 days. Negative values (blue hues) indicate colder than normal temperatures, and positive values (red hues) indicate warmer than normal temperatures.
The U.S. Drought Monitor map is updated weekly on Thursday mornings, with data valid through the previous Tuesday at 7 am Eastern.
Precipitation data are updated daily, with a delay of 3 to 4 days to allow for data collection and quality control.
Temperature data are updated daily, with a delay of 3 to 4 days to allow for data collection and quality control.
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D4 | #730000 | Exceptional Drought (0–2nd Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 98% to 100% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| D3 | #E60000 | Extreme Drought (2nd–5th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 95% to 98% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| D2 | #FFAA00 | Severe Drought (5th–10th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 90% to 95% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| D1 | #FCD37F | Moderate Drought (10th–20th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 80% to 90% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| D0 | #FFFF00 | Abnormally Dry (20th–30th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 70% to 80% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| W0 | #AAFF55 | Abnormally Wet (70th–80th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 70% to 80% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| W1 | #01FFFF | Moderate Wet (80th–90th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 80% to 90% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| W2 | #00AAFF | Severe Wet (90th–95th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 90% to 95% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| W3 | #0000FF | Extreme Wet (95th–98th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 95% to 98% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| W4 | #0000AA | Exceptional Wet (98th–100th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 98% to 100% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
The Multi-Indicator Drought Index (MIDI) looks at current drought conditions across the U.S. by integrating several key drought indices on precipitation and moisture into one objective, computer-generated map.
The Short-Term MIDI approximates drought impacts from changes in precipitation and moisture over a short-term timeframe (looking back up to 90 days), such as impacts to non-irrigated agriculture, topsoil moisture, and range and pasture conditions. Long-term droughts (lasting months to years) can have different impacts.
This experimental map is based on methodology from the NOAA National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center. Learn how this map is made.
UC Merced, via Climate Engine
The drought indices used in this map are based on the GridMET dataset and use a reference period of 1979–present. This map is updated every 5 days, with a delay of 4 to 5 days to allow for data collection and quality control.
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D4 | #730000 | Exceptional Drought (0–2nd Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 98% to 100% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| D3 | #E60000 | Extreme Drought (2nd–5th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 95% to 98% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| D2 | #FFAA00 | Severe Drought (5th–10th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 90% to 95% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| D1 | #FCD37F | Moderate Drought (10th–20th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 80% to 90% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| D0 | #FFFF00 | Abnormally Dry (20th–30th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are drier than 70% to 80% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| W0 | #AAFF55 | Abnormally Wet (70th–80th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 70% to 80% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| W1 | #01FFFF | Moderate Wet (80th–90th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 80% to 90% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| W2 | #00AAFF | Severe Wet (90th–95th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 90% to 95% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| W3 | #0000FF | Extreme Wet (95th–98th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 95% to 98% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
| W4 | #0000AA | Exceptional Wet (98th–100th Percentile) This map integrates multiple drought indices measuring precipitation and moisture into one computer-generated drought map, with a reference period of 1979–present. According to these indices, current conditions are wetter than 98% to 100% of past conditions. Learn more about these categories. |
The Multi-Indicator Drought Index (MIDI) looks at current drought conditions across the U.S. by integrating several key drought indices on precipitation and moisture into one objective, computer-generated map.
The Long-Term MIDI approximates drought impacts from changes in precipitation and moisture over a long-term timeframe (up to 5 years), such as impacts to irrigated agriculture, groundwater, and reservoir levels. Long-term drought conditions can also increase wildfire intensity and severity.
This experimental map is based on methodology from the NOAA National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center. Learn how this map is made.
UC Merced, via Climate Engine
The drought indices used in this map are based on the GridMET dataset and use a reference period of 1979–present. This map is updated every 5 days, with a delay of 4 to 5 days to allow for data collection and quality control.
The USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) conducts hundreds of surveys every year and prepares reports covering virtually every aspect of U.S. agriculture, including agricultural commodities statistics for crops and livestock. This map displays crops and livestock by county alongside the current U.S. Drought Monitor. Learn more.
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D0 | #ffff00 | D0 - Abnormally Dry Abnormally Dry (D0) indicates a region that is going into or coming out of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D1 | #fcd37f | D1 – Moderate Drought Moderate Drought (D1) is the first of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D2 | #fa0 | D2 – Severe Drought Severe Drought (D2) is the second of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D3 | #e60000 | D3 – Extreme Drought Extreme Drought (D3) is the third of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D4 | #730000 | D4 – Exceptional Drought Exceptional Drought (D4) is the most intense drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D0 | #ffff00 | D0 - Abnormally Dry Abnormally Dry (D0) indicates a region that is going into or coming out of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D1 | #fcd37f | D1 – Moderate Drought Moderate Drought (D1) is the first of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D2 | #fa0 | D2 – Severe Drought Severe Drought (D2) is the second of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D3 | #e60000 | D3 – Extreme Drought Extreme Drought (D3) is the third of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D4 | #730000 | D4 – Exceptional Drought Exceptional Drought (D4) is the most intense drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D0 | #ffff00 | D0 - Abnormally Dry Abnormally Dry (D0) indicates a region that is going into or coming out of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D1 | #fcd37f | D1 – Moderate Drought Moderate Drought (D1) is the first of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D2 | #fa0 | D2 – Severe Drought Severe Drought (D2) is the second of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D3 | #e60000 | D3 – Extreme Drought Extreme Drought (D3) is the third of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D4 | #730000 | D4 – Exceptional Drought Exceptional Drought (D4) is the most intense drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D0 | #ffff00 | D0 - Abnormally Dry Abnormally Dry (D0) indicates a region that is going into or coming out of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D1 | #fcd37f | D1 – Moderate Drought Moderate Drought (D1) is the first of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D2 | #fa0 | D2 – Severe Drought Severe Drought (D2) is the second of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D3 | #e60000 | D3 – Extreme Drought Extreme Drought (D3) is the third of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D4 | #730000 | D4 – Exceptional Drought Exceptional Drought (D4) is the most intense drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D0 | #ffff00 | D0 - Abnormally Dry Abnormally Dry (D0) indicates a region that is going into or coming out of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D1 | #fcd37f | D1 – Moderate Drought Moderate Drought (D1) is the first of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D2 | #fa0 | D2 – Severe Drought Severe Drought (D2) is the second of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D3 | #e60000 | D3 – Extreme Drought Extreme Drought (D3) is the third of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D4 | #730000 | D4 – Exceptional Drought Exceptional Drought (D4) is the most intense drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
The USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) conducts hundreds of surveys every year and prepares reports covering virtually every aspect of U.S. agriculture, including agricultural commodities statistics for crops and livestock. This map displays crops and livestock by county alongside the current U.S. Drought Monitor. Learn more.
2017 Census of Agriculture data were provided by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The U.S. Drought Monitor map is produced weekly on Thursday mornings, with data valid through the previous Tuesday at 7 am Eastern.
2017 Census of Agriculture data were provided by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The U.S. Drought Monitor map is produced weekly on Thursday mornings, with data valid through the previous Tuesday at 7 am Eastern.
2017 Census of Agriculture data were provided by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The U.S. Drought Monitor map is produced weekly on Thursday mornings, with data valid through the previous Tuesday at 7 am Eastern.
2017 Census of Agriculture data were provided by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The U.S. Drought Monitor map is produced weekly on Thursday mornings, with data valid through the previous Tuesday at 7 am Eastern.
2017 Census of Agriculture data were provided by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The U.S. Drought Monitor map is produced weekly on Thursday mornings, with data valid through the previous Tuesday at 7 am Eastern.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) produces maps of real-time streamflow conditions compared to historical conditions. The map depicts streamflow conditions as computed at USGS streamgages. The colors represent real-time streamflow compared to percentiles of historical daily streamflow for the day of the year. Click on a streamgage to view more information.
This map shows the probability (percent chance) of above-normal (green hues) or below-normal (brown hues) precipitation over the next calendar month. White areas indicates equal chances of above- or below-normal precipitation.
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Low | #ff0000 | Record Low Estimated streamflow is the lowest value recorded at this gauge on this day of the year. Learn more. |
| Much Below | #b12121 | Much Below Normal ( Estimated streamflow is in the 0–10th percentile of historical streamflow values recorded at this gauge on this day of the year. Learn more. |
| Below | #ffa400 | Below Normal (10th–25th Percentile) Estimated streamflow is in the 10th–25th percentile of historical streamflow values recorded at this gauge on this day of the year. Learn more. |
| Normal | #00ff00 | Normal (25th–75th Percentile) Estimated streamflow is in the 25th–75th percentile of historical streamflow values recorded at this gauge on this day of the year. Learn more. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Above | #40dfd0 | Above Normal (75th–90th Percentile) Estimated streamflow is in the 75th–90th percentile of historical streamflow values recorded at this gauge on this day of the year. Learn more. |
| Much Above | #0000ff | Much Above Normal (>90th Percentile) Estimated streamflow is in the 90th–100th percentile of historical streamflow values recorded at this gauge on this day of the year. Learn more. |
| High | #000000 | Record High Estimated streamflow is the highest value ever measured at this gauge on this day of the year. Learn more. |
| Not Ranked | #ffffff | Not Ranked A flow category has not been computed for this gauge, for example due to insufficient historical data or no current streamflow estimates. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D0 | #ffff00 | D0 - Abnormally Dry Abnormally Dry (D0) indicates a region that is going into or coming out of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D1 | #fcd37f | D1 – Moderate Drought Moderate Drought (D1) is the first of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D2 | #fa0 | D2 – Severe Drought Severe Drought (D2) is the second of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D3 | #e60000 | D3 – Extreme Drought Extreme Drought (D3) is the third of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D4 | #730000 | D4 – Exceptional Drought Exceptional Drought (D4) is the most intense drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| Range | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 100% - 90% | #4f2f2f | >90% Chance of Below Normal There is a >90% chance of below-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 90% - 80% | #804000 | 80%–90% Chance of Below Normal There is an 80%–90% chance of below-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 80% - 70% | #934639 | 70%–80% Chance of Below Normal There is an 70%–80% chance of below-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 70% - 60% | #9b5031 | 60%–70% Chance of Below Normal There is an 60%–70% chance of below-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 60% - 50% | #bb6d33 | 50%–60% Chance of Below Normal There is an 50%–60% chance of below-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 50% - 40% | #d8a750 | 40%–50% Chance of Below Normal There is an 40%–50% chance of below-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 40% - 33% | #f0d493 | 33%–40% Chance of Below Normal There is an 33%–40% chance of below-normal precipitation during this period. |
| Range | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 33% - 40% | #b3d9ab | 33%–40% Chance of Above Normal There is an 33%–40% chance of above-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 40% - 50% | #94cd7e | 40%–50% Chance of Above Normal There is an 40%–50% chance of above-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 50% - 60% | #48ae38 | 50%–60% Chance of Above Normal There is an 50%–60% chance of above-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 60% - 70% | #3a7b5f | 60%–70% Chance of Above Normal There is an 60%–70% chance of above-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 70% - 80% | #008e40 | 70%–80% Chance of Above Normal There is an 70%–80% chance of above-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 80% - 90% | #28553d | 80%–90% Chance of Above Normal There is an 80%–90% chance of above-normal precipitation during this period. |
| 90% - 100% | #285517 | >90% Chance of Above Normal There is a >90% chance of above-normal precipitation during this period. |
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) produces maps of real-time streamflow conditions compared to historical conditions. The map depicts streamflow conditions as computed at USGS streamgages. The colors represent real-time streamflow compared to percentiles of historical daily streamflow for the day of the year. Click on a streamgage to view more information.
This map shows the probability (percent chance) of above-normal (green hues) or below-normal (brown hues) precipitation over the next calendar month. White areas indicates equal chances of above- or below-normal precipitation.
This map updates daily on Drought.gov. View the most recent real-time streamflow data via USGS.
The Climate Prediction Center updates their monthly precipitation outlook on the last day of each calendar month.
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D0 | #ffff00 | D0 - Abnormally Dry Abnormally Dry (D0) indicates a region that is going into or coming out of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D1 | #fcd37f | D1 – Moderate Drought Moderate Drought (D1) is the first of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D2 | #fa0 | D2 – Severe Drought Severe Drought (D2) is the second of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D3 | #e60000 | D3 – Extreme Drought Extreme Drought (D3) is the third of four drought categories (D1–D4), according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
| D4 | #730000 | D4 – Exceptional Drought Exceptional Drought (D4) is the most intense drought category, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. View typical impacts by state. |
The U.S. Drought Monitor (2000–present) depicts the location and intensity of drought across the country. Every Thursday, authors from NOAA, USDA, and the National Drought Mitigation Center produce a new map based on their assessments of the best available data and input from local observers. The map uses five categories: Abnormally Dry (D0), showing areas that may be going into or are coming out of drought, and four levels of drought (D1–D4). Learn more.
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D4 | #730000 | D4 (SPI of -2.0 or less) The 9-month Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is -2.0 or less, indicating exceptional drought (D4) conditions. |
| D3 | #E60000 | D3 (SPI of -1.9 to -1.6) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is between -1.9 to -1.6, indicating extreme drought (D3) conditions. |
| D2 | #FFAA00 | D2 (SPI of -1.5 to -1.3) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is between -1.5 to -1.3, indicating severe drought (D2) conditions. |
| D1 | #FCD37F | D1 (SPI of -1.2 to -0.8) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is between -1.2 to -0.8, indicating moderate drought (D1) conditions. |
| D0 | #FFFF00 | D0 (SPI of -0.7 to -0.5) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is between -0.7 to -0.5, indicating abnormally dry (D0) conditions. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| W0 | #AAFF55 | W0 (SPI of 0.5 to 0.7) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is between 0.5 to 0.7, indicating abnormally wet (W0) conditions. |
| W1 | #01FFFF | W1 (SPI of 0.8 to 1.2) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is between 0.8 to 1.2, indicating moderate wet (W1) conditions. |
| W2 | #00AAFF | W2 (SPI of 1.3 to 1.5) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is between 1.3 to 1.5, indicating severe wet (W2) conditions. |
| W3 | #0000FF | W3 (SPI of 1.6 to 1.9) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is between 1.6 to 1.9, indicating extreme wet (W3) conditions. |
| W4 | #0000AA | W4 (SPI of 2.0 or more) The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) value for this location is 2.0 or greater, indicating exceptional wet (W4) conditions. |
Drought results from an imbalance between water supply and water demand. The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) measures water supply, specifically precipitation. SPI captures how observed precipitation (rain, hail, snow) deviates from the climatological average over a given time period—in this case, over the 9 months leading up to the selected date. Red hues indicate drier conditions, while blue hues indicate wetter conditions. Data are available monthly from 1895–present. Learn more.
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| D4 | #730000 | D4 (PMDI of -5.0 or less) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is -5.0 or less, indicating exceptional drought (D4) conditions. |
| D3 | #E60000 | D3 (PMDI of -4.9 to -4.0) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is -4.9 to -4.0, indicating extreme drought (D3) conditions. |
| D2 | #FFAA00 | D2 (PMDI of -3.9 to -3.0) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is -3.9 to -3.0, indicating severe drought (D2) conditions. |
| D1 | #FCD37F | D1 (PMDI of -2.9 to -2.0) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is -2.9 to -2.0, indicating moderate drought (D1) conditions. |
| D0 | #FFFF00 | D0 (PMDI of -1.9 to -1.0) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is -1.9 to -1.0, indicating abnormally dry (D0) conditions. |
| Value | Map Hex Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| W0 | #AAFF55 | W0 (PMDI of 1.0 to 1.9) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is 1.0 to 1.9, indicating abnormally wet (W0) conditions. |
| W1 | #01FFFF | W1 (PMDI of 2.0 to 2.9) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is 2.0 to 2.9, indicating moderate wet (W1) conditions. |
| W2 | #00AAFF | W2 (PMDI of 3.0 to 3.9) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is 3.0 to 3.9, indicating severe wet (W2) conditions. |
| W3 | #0000FF | W3 (PMDI of 4.0 to 4.9) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is 4.0 to 4.9, indicating extreme wet (W3) conditions. |
| W4 | #0000AA | W4 (PMDI of 5.0 or greater) Tree rings were used to reconstruct a Palmer Modified Drought Index (PMDI) value for each June–August, estimating relative dryness. The PMDI value for this location is 5.0 or greater, indicating exceptional wet (W4) conditions. |
In paleoclimatology, proxy climate data (e.g., tree rings, ocean sediments) can allow us to reconstruct past climate conditions before we had widespread instrumental records. The Living Blended Drought Atlas, shown here, estimates average drought conditions each summer (June–August) as far back as the year 0 by combining tree-ring reconstructions and instrumental records. Red hues indicate drier conditions, while blue hues indicate wetter conditions.
The Colorado River provides water to almost 40 million people in two countries, seven states, 29 federally recognized Indian tribes, and 4 million acres of farmland. According to a University of Arizona study, the Colorado River supports $1.4 trillion in annual economic activity—equivalent to 1/12th of total U.S. gross domestic product—and 16 million jobs in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Since 2000, historically dry conditions have added stress to the Colorado River’s already over-allocated water resources.
Since 2000, the Colorado River basin has been experiencing a historic, extended drought that has impacted regional water supply and other resources, such as hydropower, recreation, and ecological goods and services services.
Learn more about the current 16-year drought and its effects on the Colorado River basin through this story map, which was created by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Bureau of Reclamation.
View river, snow, and reservoir conditions; forecasts of temperature, precipitation, water supply and peak flows; soil moisture conditions and other data, maps, and tools for the Colorado River through the National Weather Service Colorado Basin River Forecast Center (CBRFC).
The CBRFC is responsible for monitoring and forecasting climate conditions for the entire Colorado River basin and the Great Basin, covering an area of 303,450 square miles.
Since 2008, Lake Mead and Lake Powell have been operated in accordance with the 2007 Record of Decision for the Colorado River Interim Guidelines for Lower Basin Shortages and the Coordinated Operations for Lake Powell and Lake Mead. The Guidelines define operating procedures during drought and low reservoir conditions to minimize shortages in the Lower Colorado basin and avoid the risk of curtailment in the Upper Colorado basin. These Guidelines remain in effect through 2025. In advance of negotiating new Guidelines, in 2020 the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation issued a report on an assessment of effectiveness of the Guidelines. A key conclusion of the report was that “increasing severity of the drought necessitated additional action to reduce the risk of reaching critically low elevations in Lakes Powell and Mead.”
In addition, to reduce the risk of Lake Powell and Lake Mead declining to critically low levels, in December 2017, the U.S. Department of the Interior called on the seven Colorado River basin states to put drought contingency plans in place before the end of 2018. Congress approved the plan submitted by the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming as the Colorado River Drought Contingency Plan Authorization Act on April 16, 2019.
