Where Are April Showers? Nearly Half of U.S. Population in Drought

Drought is worsening across much of the contiguous U.S., affecting nearly 150 million people.

Extreme to exceptional drought is gripping parts of the Southeast, Great Plains, and West.

Severe drought is also spreading into the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, Upper West, and Southwest.

Above-normal heat, persistent dryness, and a lingering upper-level ridge are driving the expansion.

The widespread drought could strain water supplies, damage crops, and raise wildfire risk.