Boroughs with the worst droughts in Alaska
Nearly one-quarter of the continental , according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Storms during this past winter brought heavy (in some areas, record-setting) rainfall and flooding to California, offering the state an expected that covered nearly 100% of the state from 2020 to 2022. But in other parts of the country, especially dry conditions continue. West Virginia is currently the state with the most widespread drought, covering 98.5% of the state's area.
In periods of drought, levels of major reservoirs and rivers can fall dramatically. Groundwater systems are also affected as shrinking water supplies impact agriculture and hydropower generation while increasing wildfire risk.
Periods of drought have intensified and become more frequent in recent years due to climate change. Scientists predict that even in , much of the U.S. will be drier by the end of the century.
cited data from the to identify the boroughs in Alaska with the worst droughts as of August 20, 2024. Boroughs are listed in order of percent of the area in drought conditions. "Abnormally dry" is not considered to be a drought but is included as a separate data point. Additional data for the state overall is also included. Any boroughs not experiencing drought are not included in the list. Boroughs are listed in order of drought severity.
