Drought Information
Click Here To View The Most Recent North and Central Texas Drought Information Statement
3/2/26 Update
Over the past month, drought conditions have continued to intensify and expand across parts of North and Central Texas. Abnormally Dry (D0) conditions now encompass much of the western and northern portions of the forecast area, while Moderate Drought (D1) has become more common across the I-35 corridor and into portions of Central Texas. The most significant degradation remains focused across the far northeast counties, where Severe to Extreme Drought (D2-D3) has expanded in coverage, reflecting the combined impacts of unseasonably warm temperatures and a persistent lack of meaningful rainfall.
Winter 2025-2026 has finished as one of the warmest on record across North and Central Texas, and the rainfall deficit has continued to worsen through February. Both DFW and Waco are now more than 3 inches below normal only two months into the year, reinforcing increasing concerns for drought persistence and additional degradation if spring rains are delayed.
Looking ahead climatologically, we are entering the wettest time of the year across North and Central Texas. While this page does not include forecast specifics, the onset of a more active pattern through the first full week of the season combined with the March outlook (which favors above normal precipitation across the region) supports increasing confidence that drought conditions may begin to contract and improve through the opening weeks of spring, particularly where repeated widespread rainfall can translate into meaningful soil moisture recovery and improved hydrologic conditions.
Current Drought Conditions
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
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