65% of California Abnormally Dry Amid Persistent Drought Conditions
As of September 1, 2026, 65% of California remains abnormally dry, with no week-over-week improvement in drought conditions (goldrushcam.com, 2026-09-03). Northern California has seen an expansion of moderate drought due to short-term dryness and warmth, while the state continues to grapple with long-term precipitation deficits. Groundwater levels in areas like St. Thomas and St. John remain critically low, with depths increasing since April 2026. Meanwhile, the remnants of Tropical Storm Edouard are forecast to bring heavy rainfall to parts of the southeastern U.S., including the Gulf Coast and Florida Peninsula, with localized amounts exceeding 2-3 inches. Dry weather is expected to persist across much of the central and south-central U.S., exacerbating drought conditions in regions like Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. 
