The Latest Breaking News from the US Drought Monitor

Extreme Weather Pushes Puerto Rico to Ration Water as Experts Warn Crisis Could Last Months

Extreme drought conditions, an aging water system and other compounding problems are forcing officials to declare an islandwide state of emergency and implement rationing measures.

Latin Times · Aug 11

Nearly Half the U.S. Is in Drought Right Now — Here Are the Health Risks and Which Cities Face the Highest Risk

As of June 9, 2026, 46.93% of the U.S. is in drought. Washington declared emergencies; Utah hit historic lows. Here are the health risks you need to know.

Medical Daily · Jun 17

California is completely drought-free for the first time in 25 years

Some wet years and recent winter storms have helped bring the state out of drought after years of insufficient rainfall

The Guardian - US · Jan 9