Atmospheric River Bringing Heavy Rain to Southern California and Heavy Snow to the Sierra Nevadas

A strong atmospheric river will continue heavy rain over southern California through Friday. The heaviest rainfall is ongoing today in the Los Angeles Basin. Flash and urban flooding is possible. A prolonged heavy snowfall has begun over the Sierra Nevada Mountains and will continue through Friday. Travel will become increasingly difficult over the passes due to snow and strong winds. Read More >

Drought Information

The record-breaking rainfall on November 20th 2025 combined with additional rainfall during the latter half of the month, resulted in rapid improvements to the growing drought conditions across North and Central Texas. The percentage of our 46 county warning area covered in D0 (Abnormally Dry) to D4 (Exceptional Drought) conditions fell from 66.56% on November 18, 2025 to 16.34% as of December 2, 2025.

The current seasonal precipitation outlook valid for Dec '25 - Jan '26 indicates below normal precipitation. Despite this dry outlook, currently drought re-development is unlikely this winter.

Current Drought Conditions

U.S. Drought Monitor

Fire Danger

With winter dormancy ongoing, any extended period without precipitation could reignite wildfire concerns. The days with the greatest potential for fire initiation and spread are those that are sunny and warm with low humidity and breezy winds. This potential will diminish with the onset of the spring growing season.

Even if a formal burn ban is not in effect for your area, it is still important to be vigilant about fire usage. Avoid open flames near dry vegetation, and assure all coals and embers are fully extinguished.

The Keetch-Byram Drought Index is a drought statistic specifically designed to assess fire danger.

Drought Links

National Integrated Drought Information System

National Drought Mitigation Center

Drought Impact Reporter

Precipitation Estimates

Lake Levels

FWD RSS Feed