Record Spring Drought Grips U.S., Sparking Wildfires and Water Concerns
The United States is experiencing its worst spring drought on record, affecting 62.78% of the continental U.S. as of April 21, 2026. The drought is most severe in the Southeast, where 94% of the area from Florida to Virginia is in severe or worse drought conditions. This has led to at least 20 large wildfires across the region. The drought is exacerbated by a lack of rain and snow in early 2026, with precipitation levels less than 70% of average from January through March. The Colorado River's inflow into Lake Powell is expected to be just 29% of its historical average, impacting water levels at Lake Mead and hydropower operations at Hoover Dam. The drought is also affecting the West, where a March heat wave depleted snowpack, raising concerns about water shortages. 
