Record U.S. drought sparks fears about wildfires, water supply and food prices

Key Points:

• Over 61% of the contiguous U.S. is experiencing moderate to exceptional drought, the highest level for this time of year since 2000, with 97% of the Southeast and two-thirds of the West affected, raising concerns for wildfire season, food prices, and water supply.
• The West faces record-low snowpack due to historic snow drought and heat, threatening water shortages and increasing wildfire risk, while a separate drought linked to a shifted jet stream impacts the South and East Coast.
• Atmospheric moisture deficit in the West is 77% above normal, indicating extreme dryness that exacerbates drought conditions, which typically peak in summer but are occurring unusually early this year.
• Water shortages are imminent, especially for regions dependent on the Colorado River, and low snowpack combined with rising temperatures is expected to elevate wildfire risks in the Southwest.
• Experts warn the drought could severely impact agriculture and food prices domestically and globally, with climate change intensifying these extreme weather patterns alongside natural variability.