This week, widespread precipitation affected much of the U.S., with the Pacific Northwest and southern U.S. seeing significant rainfall.
Coastal areas from Washington to northern California reported up to 15 inches, while parts of the southeast and Ohio Valley saw totals between 2 and 10 inches.
The rain helped improve drought conditions across the south, Midwest, and Pacific Northwest. However, drought worsened in the southwest and parts of the high plains. Temperatures were largely high than normal, especially from the west to the Midwest.
The northeast and parts of the southeast experienced cooler-than-usual conditions.
As we start a new year, Ag Web reports that 70% of the U.S. faces drought.
The dry fall could signal the possibility of a dry planting season for key crops like corn and soybeans. Deep soil dryness is particularly concerning in the Corn Belt and Southwest.
One meteorologist warns that unless weather patterns shift, drought conditions could worsen across the plains and Midwest, creating significant challenges for the 2025 growing season.
