National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Across the Southern and Eastern US; Heat and Fire Weather Concerns in the West

Showers and thunderstorms are expected across the southern and eastern US this week, with heavy rain and localized flooding, particularly near the Gulf Coast. Monsoonal moisture will bring rain and potential flooding to parts of the Southwest. Heat and fire weather threats will continue to impact the West. Read More >

 

  Drought Severity Classifications

 

Ranges

Category

Description

Possible Impacts

Palmer Drought Index

CPC Soil
Moisture Model
(Percentiles)

USGS Weekly Streamflow
(Percentiles)

Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI)

Objective Short and Long-term Drought Indicator Blends (Percentiles)

D0

Abnormally
Dry

Going into drought: short-term dryness slowing planting, growth of crops or pastures. Coming out of drought: some lingering water deficits;  pastures or crops not fully recovered

-1.0 to -1.9

21-30

21-30

-0.5 to -0.7

21-30

D1

Moderate Drought

Some damage to crops, pastures; streams, reservoirs, or wells low, some water shortages developing or imminent; voluntary water-use restrictions requested

-2.0 to -2.9

11-20

11-20

-0.8 to -1.2

11-20

D2

Severe
Drought

Crop or pasture losses likely;  water shortages common; water restrictions imposed

-3.0 to -3.9

6-10

6-10

-1.3 to -1.5

6-10

D3

Extreme Drought

Major crop/pasture losses;  widespread water shortages or restrictions

-4.0 to -4.9

3-5

3-5

-1.6 to -1.9

3-5

D4

Exceptional Drought

Exceptional and widespread crop/pasture losses; shortages of water in reservoirs, streams, and wells creating water emergencies

-5.0 or less

0-2

0-2

-2.0 or less

0-2