Drought Update for February 24, 2026

This Week's U.S. Drought Monitor Map of Alabama

A map of U.S. Drought Monitor drought levels in Alabama for the week of February 24, 2026

Statewide Condition Summary

What's Changed? Abnormal Dryness (D0) expanded by 3.5% across the state and Moderate Drought (D1) expanded by nearly 10%. The most severe drought conditions remain around Lee and Conecuh Counties.

What's New? Rainfall was scattered and generally below normal this past week, with only a few areas receiving more than 1 inch. Almost the entire state is back to being either abnormally dry or in some level of drought. Hydrologically, we are not seeing the precipitation or recharge that is expected or needed as we head into spring.

What's Next? Most of Alabama is forecast to see 0.5 - 1 inches of rain in the coming week, which could stave off worsening drought conditions in areas that receive it.

Statewide Coverage by Category

CategoryCoverage This WeekChanges Since Last Week
D0: Abnormally Dry 32.76% 3.43%
D1: Moderate Drought 38.84% 9.20%
D2: Severe Drought 20.59% 0.62%
D3: Extreme Drought 7.68% 0.00%
D4: Exceptional Drought 0.00% 0.00%

Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, authored by Brad Rippey (U.S Department of Agriculture) with input from the Alabama Office of the State Climatologist

 

Drought conditions expanded across Alabama this week. Moderate Drought coverage grew by nearly 10%, and Abnormally Dry conditions also expanded, bringing almost the entire state back into some level of dryness or drought. The most severe impacts remain concentrated around Lee and Conecuh counties, where Extreme Drought (D3) persists. Rainfall this past week was scattered and generally below normal, and hydrologic indicators continue to show limited recharge as we move closer to spring. While some rainfall is forecast in the coming week, sustained and widespread precipitation will be needed to reverse current trends.

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