Drought Update for April 28, 2026 This Week's U.S. Drought Monitor Map of Alabama Statewide Condition Summary What's Changed? Some areas saw very slight changes in drought conditions this week, but overall, 100% of the state remains in some level of Moderate (D1) to Exceptional (D4) Drought. What's New? Streams are low, soil moisture is very limited, and reservoirs are below normal levels. Wildfire activity continues to impact several counties. Rain is expected and will help, but several inches are needed for real improvement. What's Next? Recent and ongoing storm systems will bring much needed rain across the state, but those systems will need to continue in order to see widespread, major improvements. Statewide Coverage by Category CategoryCoverage This WeekChanges Since Last Week D0: Abnormally Dry 0.00% 0.00% D1: Moderate Drought 11.32% 1.77% D2: Severe Drought 40.75% 0.13% D3: Extreme Drought 47.63% 1.51% D4: Exceptional Drought 0.30% 0.13% 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 across Alabama saw little change this week, with 100% of the state remaining in some level of drought. Nearly half of the state is in extreme drought (D3), while over 40% is in severe drought (D2). We continue to see the worst conditions in South and Central Alabama. North Alabama is largely in moderate (D1) to severe (D2) drought. Ongoing dryness has kept streamflows low, soil moisture limited, and reservoirs below normal, and wildfire activity remains a concern in several counties. Rainfall is expected and may bring some short-term relief, but multiple rounds of steady, widespread rain will be needed to see meaningful improvement. Download the Alabama Drought Update Graphic View Past Updates Alabama Drought in the News Despite Recent Rain, Drought Persists Across Alabama: Op-ed from State Climatologist: Lee Ellenburg op-ed for AL.com | Mar. 29, 2026 Alabama Wildfire Danger Remains High as Drought, Low Humidity Fuel Fast-Moving Fires: WSFA 12 Emma Ellis | Mar. 29, 2026 Drought Resources Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs: Office of Water Resources Alabama Drought Reach: Auburn University Water Resources Center U.S. Drought Monitor for Alabama Alabama Drought.gov page NOAA National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) NIDIS Southeast Drought Early Warning System (DEWS) Report drought conditions with CMOR Report daily rainfall with CoCoRaHS Assessing drought in the United States
