National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Drought Information

 


 

Autumn rainfall eroded drought conditions across much of North and Central Texas.  El Niño may continue to enhance precipitation amounts throughout the cold season, leading to additional improvement.  However, extraordinary long-term precipitation deficits will take some time to reverse, thus some of the ongoing drought areas are likely to persist into the upcoming spring.


More information can be found in our Drought Information Statement.

 
 

U.S. Seasonal Drought Outlook

 


Current Drought Conditions

  

U.S. Drought Monitor

 

U.S. Drought Monitor - North and Central Texas

 

U.S. Drought Monitor - Texas

 


Fire Danger

  

Warm season vegetation is in winter dormancy.  Although precipitation in the cold season can initiate the growth of some winter grasses, the dormant vegetation could still be conducive to fire initiation and spread.  The days of greatest concern will be those that are sunny and warm with low humidity and breezy winds.

Autumn rainfall ended nearly every outdoor burn ban across the region.  Even if a formal ban is not in effect for your area, it is still important to be vigilant about fire usageAvoid open flames near dry vegetation, and assure all coals and embers are fully extinguished.

 

Texas Outdoor Burn Bans

Keetch-Byram Drought Index

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