Record Drought Across U.S. Raises Concerns Over Fires and Water Supply
The United States is experiencing a record drought, with more than 61% of the Lower 48 states in moderate to exceptional drought conditions. This includes 97% of the Southeast and two-thirds of the West, marking the highest levels for this time of year since the U.S. Drought Monitor began in 2000. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Palmer Drought Severity Index recorded its highest level for March since 1895, with last month being the third-driest month on record. The drought is exacerbated by record heat and low snow levels in the West, which typically store water for the summer. Additionally, a separate drought in the South, linked to the jet stream, is affecting areas from Texas to the East Coast. 
