Record drought hits US, which is bad for food prices, fires and water
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Over 61% of the contiguous U.S. is experiencing moderate to exceptional drought, the highest levels for this time of year since 2000, with 97% of the Southeast and two-thirds of the West affected.
- The Palmer Drought Severity Index recorded March as the third-driest month ever, trailing only the Dust Bowl months of 1934, highlighting severe dryness exacerbated by record heat and low snowpack in the West.
- The drought is driven by a combination of natural variability and human-caused climate change, with a significant increase in atmospheric moisture demand (vapor pressure deficit) intensifying the drying effect.
- Concerns are rising about the upcoming wildfire season, water shortages—especially in the Colorado River basin—and potential impacts on agriculture and food prices, which could have global repercussions.
- Meteorologists warn that drought typically worsens in summer, and current early-season severity signals a potentially dangerous wildfire and water crisis ahead.
