Drought Information Statement for Central & Southwest Kansas 
Valid September 11, 2026
Issued By: WFO Dodge City
This product will be updated monthly for D2 or D3 and worse drought.  

U.S. Drought Monitor


Drought intensity and Extent

D2 (Severe Drought): A large area of D2 drought exists across southwest Kansas.

D1 (Moderate Drought): D1 drought still exist across parts of central Kansas including Hays and WaKeeney.


Recent Change in Drought Intensity
Four Week Drought Monitor Class Change. 

Drought Worsened: Drought has worsened across much of southwest Kansas.
 
Drought Improved: Drought has remained the same or improved across parts of west central Kansas.


Precipitation

It was drier than average across most of central and southwest Kansas over the past month. Parts of far western Kansas have experienced near average to slightly above average rains.


Temperatures

Temperatures were above average over the past month.


Summary of Impacts

Agricultural Impacts

There are still some agricultural concerns due to drought.


Hydrologic Impacts 

There are no known impacts at this time.


Fire Hazard Impacts

Fire weather will be a concern on windy days.

Other Impacts
None.

Mitigation Actions
None reported.


Hydrologic Conditions and Impacts

None.

Seven Day Precipitation Forecast

Beneficial rain is likely over the next week, especially at central Kansas locations such as Hays,
Larned and La Crosse. 


Long-Range Outlooks

Above average temperatures and precipitation are favored.

Drought Outlook

At least some level of drought will persist. But improvement in drought is expected if the above average
precipitation verifies.