Despite Rains, Drought Conditions Persist

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July 18, 2024

Despite recent rains across Oklahoma, some areas of the state are considered to be in a severe drought.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor showed nearly 4% of the state is in the “severe” category, while Oklahoma has no areas that fall under the two driest and worst drought listings—that of Extreme Drought and Exceptional Drought. The “severe” area includes Grady and Caddo counties in the southwest part of the state and up through Kingfisher county.

Also the southeast portion of Beckham County, the northern section of Greer County, and the eastern section of Washita County are shown to be in a “severe” area.

An estimated 40% of Oklahoma has no drought listed while nearly 60% is considered to be “abnormally” dry. Another 18% is in the “moderate drought” category.

The driest areas of the state, per the Drought Monitor, are in the western half.

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