Updated October 16, 2026. Based on the U.S. Drought Monitor released October 15, reflecting conditions through October 13.

Rain finally reached some places that needed it this week. Others are still waiting.

Drought now covers 45.05% of the United States and Puerto Rico, down from 46.29% last week. Across the Lower 48, coverage dropped from 55.21% to 53.73%.

That’s progress, but more than half of the contiguous U.S. remains in drought.

Where Is Drought Improving?

The Southeast saw some of this week’s biggest improvements after Hurricane Isaias brought heavy rain. Conditions improved across portions of Virginia, the Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama and Florida.

Western and central North Carolina made notable gains, including the removal of exceptional drought, the most severe category.

But drought relief and flooding can happen at the same time. Here’s why the first big rain after a drought can turn dangerous.

Parts of the West also benefited from rain and mountain snow. Drought eased in portions of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado and Wyoming, with additional improvements in Montana and Idaho.

That early snow raises a bigger question: what could the rest of winter bring? We break down how El Niño could affect snowfall this winter.

Where Is Drought Getting Worse?

The rain didn’t reach everyone.

Exceptional drought expanded in portions of Arkansas and northern Louisiana and developed in southwestern Missouri. Unusually warm weather and limited rainfall also worsened conditions in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky.

Texas remained a mixed picture, with relief in some northern and western areas while southeastern Texas continued to dry out.

Track rainfall chances and see whether meaningful relief is headed your way with the latest local forecast in the WeatherBug app.

What About the Northeast?

Rain helped parts of the Mid-Atlantic and southern New England, but northern areas missed out.

Severe drought expanded in northern Maine, while moderate drought expanded in northern Vermont.

Why Isn’t Recent Rain Reflected Everywhere?

This map reflects conditions through Tuesday morning, October 13. Rain that fell afterward will be assessed for next week’s update.

For your own plans, check rainfall timing and totals in the WeatherBug app. The national map shows where conditions stand; your local forecast helps you see what could change next.