Overview
- The latest U.S. Drought Monitor, based on data valid Jan. 6, shows 100% of California free of drought and abnormally dry conditions.
- It is the first statewide drought-free reading since Dec. 26, 2000, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Dalton Behringer.
- California is currently the only U.S. state without any drought or abnormally dry areas on the map.
- State data show 14.39 inches of precipitation as of Jan. 7, about 155% of the average for this point in the water year, and seven of 12 major reservoirs at least 75% full.
- Water experts caution the improvement reflects recent surface conditions, with Jay Lund noting that groundwater deficits persist and future droughts remain likely.