Exceptional Drought Persists in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is currently experiencing significant drought conditions, with some areas classified as 'Exceptional Drought' (D4) based on the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) of -2.0 or less. This classification indicates the most severe level of drought, with conditions drier than 70% to 80% of historical records since 1979. The U.S. Drought Monitor, which integrates multiple drought indices, highlights that these conditions are impacting water resources and agricultural activities across the state. The drought map, produced by NOAA, USDA, NASA, and the National Drought Mitigation Center, is used to inform disaster declarations and water management strategies.