Probability of Living in an Area with Severe Drought

Drought is one of the most costly natural disasters in the United States, with about 20% of the continental US experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions in a typical year. During extreme years (like 2012 or 2022), over 60% of the country can be affected. Since 2000, average annual drought-related damages have exceeded $9 billion.

The western United States has experienced a megadrought since 2000, the driest period in at least 1,200 years. Major reservoirs like Lake Mead and Lake Powell have fallen to historically low levels, threatening water supplies for 40 million people. Climate change is intensifying drought by increasing evaporation and altering precipitation patterns.

Drought impacts include water restrictions, reduced agricultural production (US agriculture uses about 80% of consumptive water), increased wildfire risk, groundwater depletion, ecosystem damage, higher food prices, and mental health effects on farmers and rural communities. Water conservation measures, improved irrigation efficiency, water recycling, desalination, and drought-resistant landscaping are key adaptation strategies. The US Drought Monitor provides weekly assessment of drought conditions across the country.