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.
Current Drought Conditions
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 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