Southern/Midwestern Drought and Heatwave

Losses, 2024 dollars

$15 billion

Losses at the time

$14 billion

Deaths

247

The losses and deaths are NCEI’s, counting everything the disaster did. The episodes below are only what the Weather Service filed in its Storm Events record, which counts damage differently and often not at all, so the two never add up and are shown apart.

• Wildfire and High Wind in Oklahoma, March 31, 2023$616,000 · 67 kt wind · 20 eventsThe passage of a vigorous upper system produced widespread and multi-faceted weather hazards across the Southern Plains on the 31st. Across Oklahoma, hazardous weather occurred behind the passage of a dryline/Pacific front during the afternoon into early evening hours.
• Wildfire and Dust Storm in Kansas, March 31, 20232 injured · 65 kt wind · 16 eventsAn intense low pressure system tracked across the Plains on March 31st, 2023. South central and southeast Kansas reported wind gusts in the 55 to 70 mph range, which caused tree and structure damage. These winds made grass fires very difficult to control.
• Wildfire in Puerto Rico, March 31, 2023$520,000 · 1 eventA wildfire burned three houses on the 31st of March in the municipality of Moca.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, March 31, 2023$1.0 million · 3 eventsVery dry air and very strong wind gusts of up to 60 to 65 mph behind a dry line, combined with drought-stricken fuels to promote conditions that supported the rapid spread of wildfire across portions of eastern Oklahoma during the afternoon of March 31st.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, April 1, 2023$526,000 · 2 eventsOngoing wildfires across north-central Oklahoma continued to burn into the afternoon of the 1st.
• Drought in Oklahoma, April 1 to 30, 202328 eventsWhile intermittent rains helped to abate drought conditions for areas along and southeast of the Interstate 44 corridor, widespread severe to exceptional drought remained across southwestern into northern Oklahoma.
• Drought in Kansas, April 1 to 30, 202327 eventsExtreme (D3) to Exceptional (D4) drought conditions continued to worsen over the area during the month of April 2023. Continued below normal rainfall, led to the the extreme and exceptional drought conditions expanding over south central Kansas, by the end of the month.
• Drought in Nebraska, April 1 to 30, 202326 eventsDry and unseasonably warm conditions continued across western and north central Nebraska in April. Precipitation totals across western and north central Nebraska were generally around a quarter inch or less across the area.
• Drought in Nebraska, April 1 to 30, 202323 eventsThroughout April 2023, at least portions of 23 of the 24 South Central Nebraska counties were assigned at least Severe Drought (D2) by the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM). This was the 15th consecutive month that D2 plagued parts of the local area.
• Drought in Texas, April 1 to 30, 202321 eventsAbove normal rainfall during the month improved drought conditions from the eastern Brush Country to the Coastal Plains by the end of the month. No drought conditions were in place over most of the Coastal plains by the end of the month.
• Drought in Texas, April 1 to 30, 202320 eventsLong term drought conditions contributed to concerns for wildfires and dust storms during the April winds and low relative humidity during the month. A total of 8,471 acres were burned across portions of Potter and Carson County in the Texas Panhandle early on in April.
• Drought in Texas, April 1 to 30, 202319 eventsDrought conditions generally improved in April. Most of the eastern half of South Central Texas received normal or greater precipitation. Hays County improved from Exceptional (D4) drought to Severe (D2) drought.
• Wildfire in New Mexico, April 2, 20231 injured · $500,000 · 1 eventDry and windy conditions produced localized critical fire weather conditions within the Estancia Valley on April 2, 2023. Winds were strong enough to allow for the Echo Ridge wildfire to undergo rapid fire spread.
• Wildfire in Arizona, April 3 to 4, 2023$500,000 · 1 eventThe human caused Williams Fire started on April 3 in the Hereford area in Cochise County. The wildfire was driven by wind gusts of 45 mph, spread northeast in dry grass, and destroyed two residences and three outbuildings near the intersection of Williams and Waters Rds.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Texas, April 4, 202362 kt wind · 21 eventsA strong system emerged from the central Rockies on the fourth. While rich Gulf of Mexico moisture did get as close as western North Texas, eastern New Mexico into the Texas Panhandle and South Plains experienced the driest air of the spring to this point, with the relative…
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, April 4, 2023$200,000 · 2 eventsAs another dynamic upper system approached the region, a sharp dryline extended across portions of central Oklahoma. Hot, dry and windy conditions lead to significant fire start and spread across portions of west-central Oklahoma.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, April 7 to 14, 2023$100,000 · 3 eventsUnseasonably warm temperatures, strong wind, and very low humidity combined with dormant, drought-stricken fuels to promote conditions that supported the rapid spread of wildfire across portions of eastern Oklahoma during early to mid April.
• Heat in Nevada, April 11, 20231 death · 1 eventOne man died of heat related causes in the Las Vegas Valley.
• Wildfire in Nebraska, April 11 to 16, 20232 injured · $3.5 million · 3 eventsPersistent drought conditions, strong southerly winds and unseasonably hot temperatures in the 90s initiated three major fires across western and north central Nebraska in mid April. Major fires were reported in Cherry County, Custer and Blaine Counties and Garfield County.
• Heat in Arizona, April 11 to 12, 20232 deaths · 2 eventsAn anomalously strong ridge of high pressure over the western United States led to high temperatures in Phoenix climbing to nearly 15 degrees above normal on the 11th.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, April 17, 2023$48,000 · 1 eventWarm, dry and breezy conditions lead to a fire start and spread across portions of Logan County.
• Wildfire in Utah, April 23 to 26, 2023$330,000 · 1 eventA wildfire started south of Fort Duchesne and burned through tribal land vegetation for three days before it was fully contained.
• Heat in Arizona, April 29 to 30, 20233 deaths · 3 eventsA strong ridge of high pressure over the western United States led to temperatures climbing in excess of 10 degrees above normal in Phoenix at the end of April.
• Drought in Iowa, May 1 to 31, 2023$3.8 million · 10 eventsDespite temperatures which averaged 2 to 5 degrees above normal during May, near to somewhat above normal precipitation alleviated, at least to a small degree, drought conditions.
• Drought in Kansas, May 1 to 31, 2023$2.6 million · 3 eventsExtreme (D3) Drought conditions improved across portions southeastern Kansas through the end of May. Beneficial rainfall allowed drought conditions to improve over most of southeastern Kansas during the month.
• Drought in Oklahoma, May 1 to 15, 202327 eventsDespite multiple rounds of heavy rainfall across portions of the area, severe to exceptional drought conditions persisted, especially along and west of the I-44 corridor.
• Drought in Nebraska, May 1 to 31, 202326 eventsMuch wetter than normal conditions brought needed drought relief to all of western and north central Nebraska in May. Drought conditions improved the most in southwestern Nebraska where record to near record precipitation fell in May.
• Drought in Kansas, May 1 to 31, 202326 eventsExtreme (D3) to Exceptional (D4) drought continued to expand across the region during the month of May, 2023, as rainfall continued be below normal. The worst areas of Exceptional drought were over south central Kansas.
• Drought in Nebraska, May 1 to 31, 202324 eventsDuring May 2023, the entire 24-county South Central Nebraska domain spent at least the vast majority of the month assigned at least Severe Drought (D2) by the U.S.
• Drought in Texas, May 1 to 31, 202317 eventsWide spread beneficial rain finally returned to the combined Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles during May 2023. Almost all of the dryland winter wheat was not harvestable at the beginning of the month.
• Drought in Texas, May 1 to 31, 202317 eventsThe drought intensity improved across most of west central Texas during the month of May due to much needed rainfall.
• Wildfire in New Mexico, May 10 to 15, 2023$250,000 · 1 eventA wildfire ignited in the town of Sapello, NM just outside of the recent Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon burn scar. The fire was discovered around 4 pm MDT along Highway 94 just west of Sapello.
• Heat in Washington, May 12 to 16, 202320 eventsA strong ridge of high pressure brought well above normal temperatures to Western Washington, with a period of high temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s. Many locations broke temperature records during this period.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, May 13 to 16, 20237 deaths · 5 eventsAn upper level ridge over the western United States resulted in high temperatures climbing to around 5-10 degrees above normal in Phoenix during the middle part of May. High temperatures recorded at Phoenix Sky Harbor ranged between 100-105 degrees between the 13th through 16th.
• Drought in Oklahoma, May 16 to 31, 202324 eventsDespite multiple rounds of heavy rainfall across portions of the area, severe to exceptional drought conditions persisted, especially along and west of the I-44 corridor.
• Heat in Arizona, May 21 to 22, 20233 deaths · 2 eventsAn upper level ridge over the Intermountain West led to temperatures climbing to around 5 degrees above normal in Phoenix on the 21st and 22nd of the month. The recorded high temperatures in Phoenix were 101 degrees on the 21st and 103 degrees on the 22nd.
• Drought in Kansas, June 1 to 30, 202326 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought continued across the region, but much rainfall during the month led to some improvement in the drought conditions by the end of the month.
• Drought in Nebraska, June 1 to 30, 202324 eventsDuring June 2023, at least parts of 22 of the 24 South Central Nebraska counties spent the entire month assigned at least Severe Drought (D2) by the U.S.
• Drought in Nebraska, June 1 to 30, 202320 eventsAdequate precipitation in June across western, far southwestern and portions of north central Nebraska, led to some improvement in drought conditions in these areas. Across the Sandhills, conditions remained largely unchanged for the month.
• Drought in Oklahoma, June 1 to 19, 202319 eventsAreas of severe to exceptional drought persisted from western into northern Oklahoma through the middle of June.
• Heat in Arizona, June 4 to 6, 20233 deaths · 3 eventsShortwave ridging over the region ahead of an approaching upper level low resulted in afternoon temperatures in Phoenix climbing upwards of 5 degrees above normal in early June. The warmest day in Phoenix during this time occurred on the 5th with a recorded high of 107 degrees.
• Heat in Nevada, June 6, 20232 deaths · 1 eventTwo people died in Las Vegas of heat-related causes.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, June 9 to 14, 20231 death · 27 eventsAn upper level ridge formed over northern Mexico into south Texas by June 9th. The upper level ridge built over south Texas for the next week. Above normal temperatures and high humidity provided dangerous heat conditions across south Texas from the 9th to 14th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 12, 20231 death · 1 eventA 40-year old man died of hyperthermia due to excessive heat.
• Drought in Illinois, June 12 to 30, 202328 eventsAfter below normal rainfall during the month of May, even drier conditions developed across central Illinois for much of the month of June until a significant storm system brought 1 to 2 inches of rain to the region on June 29th.
• Drought in Illinois, June 13 to 30, 202317 eventsSevere drought conditions developed rapidly across northeast Illinois during the middle of June, which was referred to as a flash drought. Precipitation amounts were well below normal.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, June 13 to 17, 202354 eventsA dome of strong atmospheric high pressure - known locally as La Canicula, provided a prolonged period of hot to very hot temperatures combined with high humidity to lead to excessively heat index values in mid-June.
• Heat in Texas, June 14 to 29, 202331 eventsHeat Advisories were in effect most afternoons from June 14th through June 29th, as heat index values reached 105 or greater across much of North and Central Texas. Ambient temperatures reached 102 degrees or higher across some areas on a few afternoons.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 14 to 21, 202333 eventsStrong high pressure settled over South Central Texas, and temperatures and heat indices soared. The heat wave started on the 14th in Atascosa County where the heat index reached 113.
• Wildfire in Washington, June 14 to 16, 2023$100,000 · 1 eventFire started from unknown causes on June 14.
• Heat in Louisiana, June 15 to 16, 202317 eventsWarm and moist low-level southerly winds became enhanced ahead of a weak frontal boundary draped near the Middle Red River Valley eastward along the Arkansas/Louisiana border from June 15th into the 16th.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, June 15 to 19, 20231 death · 68 eventsAn upper level ridge continued to build over south Texas from the 15th to the 19th. Above normal humidity and hot temperatures provided excessive heat conditions across the coastal plains to the Brush Country starting on the 15th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 16 to 20, 20234 deaths · 31 eventsAn extended period of excessive heat began. The first stretch reaching warning criteria was in mid-June with more to come. On other days were generally at advisory levels. Excessive Heat Warning issued for max heat indices 113F or above.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 15 to 21, 20236 injured · 46 eventsThe heat intensified during mid to late June, and excessive heat was seen across all of North and Central Texas. Excessive Heat Warnings were in effect for the entire region, as heat index values soared to 110 to 115 degrees or higher in some areas.
• Heat in Nevada, June 17, 20231 death · 1 eventOne person died in Las Vegas of heat-related causes.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, June 17 to 20, 20231 death · 11 eventsVery hot and moist low-level southerly winds became enhanced along and ahead of a stalled frontal boundary draped near to just north of the Interstate 20 corridor of East Texas and North Louisiana.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 17 to 20, 20231 death · 10 eventsVery hot and moist low-level southerly winds became enhanced along and ahead of a stalled frontal boundary draped near to just north of the Interstate 20 corridor of East Texas and North Louisiana.
• Heat in Arizona, June 17 to 18, 20232 deaths · 2 eventsShortwave ridging over the Desert Southwest led to temperatures climb several degrees above normal during the middle part of June. High temperatures in Phoenix peaked on the 18th at 109 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, June 18 to 22, 202354 eventsThe combination of hot to very hot temperatures and high humidity combined to lead to continued excessive heat criteria across much of the Rio Grande Valley and Deep South Texas in mid to late June as a stubborn mid-level area of high pressure (La Canicula, or heat dome) refused…
• Heat in Oklahoma, June 19 to 21, 202323 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105-110 degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 19th through 21st.
• Drought in South Dakota, June 20 to 30, 2023$7.4 million · 5 eventsConditions averaged warm (3 to 5 degrees above normal) and dry (50-75 percent of normal) across southeast South Dakota during June and resulted in up to a slight worsening of drought conditions.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, June 20 to 24, 20237 deaths · 55 eventsRecord high temperatures and above normal humidity continued into the latter part of the month of June. Afternoon heat index values were around 120 degrees at Kingsville and Corpus Christi from the 20th to the 23rd, with highest value of 127 at Kingsville on the 20th.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, June 20, 202318 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 20th.
• Heat in Arizona, June 20 to 24, 202312 deaths · 11 eventsDry southwesterly flow aloft over the region with an upper level ridge situated to the east over New Mexico and Texas resulted in temperatures climbing several degrees above normal in Phoenix going into the latter part of June.
• Heat in Texas, June 20 to 29, 202335 injured · 15 eventsHeat Advisories were expanded to the remainder of North and Central Texas as the June heat continued to intensify. Heat index values met or exceeded 105 degrees most afternoons, with ambient temperatures reaching 102 or greater across a few locations on some afternoons.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 21, 20231 death · 1 eventAbnormally high dewpoints lead to heat indices in Palo Duro Canyon reaching between 105 and 109 despite the ambient temperature being in the mid to upper 90s during the early part of the afternoon.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 22, 20231 death · 1 eventA 70-year old man died of heat-related causes on June 22.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, June 23 to 27, 20231 death · 33 eventsThe combination of hot to very hot temperatures and high humidity combined to lead to heat criteria across much of the Rio Grande Valley and Deep South Texas in the later stages of June as a stubborn mid-level area of high pressure refused to let up.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, June 24 to 30, 20231 death · 17 eventsIncreasingly warm and moist low-level southerly flow became enhanced along a retreating warm front as it advanced back north of the region on June 24th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 24 to 30, 202321 eventsIncreasingly warm and moist low-level southerly flow became enhanced along a retreating warm front as it advanced back north of the region on June 24th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 24 to 27, 20232 deaths · 22 eventsAnother round of warning level heat overspread much of the area excluding the immediate coastal counties.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, June 24 to 30, 20237 deaths · 12 eventsHot temperatures 3 to 6 degrees above normal were experienced in the lower elevations of Pima, Santa Cruz, Graham, Greenlee and southeast Pinal counties June 24-30, with very hot temperatures 5 to 11 degrees above normal high temperatures breaking records in a few locations June…
• Heat in Oklahoma, June 24 to 29, 202373 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 24th through 29th.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, June 24 to 29, 202360 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 24th through 29th.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 24 to 30, 2023$4.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire started from unknown causes 5 miles southwest of Parachute.
• Wildfire in Washington, June 24 to 25, 2023$400,000 · 1 eventFire started from unknown causes on June 24.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, June 25 to 30, 202362 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that has dominated the weather across the southwest US pushed east into the Mid-South toward the end of June. High temperatures combined with high humidity produced heat index values over 105 degrees and in some cases over 110 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Tennessee, June 25 to 30, 202350 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that has dominated the weather across the southwest US pushed east into the Mid-South toward the end of June. High temperatures combined with high humidity produced heat index values over 105 degrees and in some cases over 110 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, June 25 to 30, 202322 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that has dominated the weather across the southwest US pushed east into the Mid-South toward the end of June. High temperatures combined with high humidity produced heat index values over 105 degrees and in some cases over 110 degrees.
• Heat in Kentucky, June 25, 202322 eventsHazardous levels of heat and humidity occurred in a southwest wind flow ahead of a cold front. Heat index values peaked between 105 and 110 degrees at most locations in western Kentucky.
• Heat in Illinois, June 25, 202319 eventsHazardous levels of heat and humidity occurred in a southwest wind flow ahead of a cold front. Heat index values peaked between 105 and 110 degrees at most locations in southern Illinois. The peak heat index at the Carbondale and Mt. Vernon airports was 107 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, June 25 to 29, 20232 deaths · 26 eventsThe upper level ridge over south Texas weakened by the end of the month. Above normal temperatures and humidity continued into the last week of the month. Afternoon heat index values was around 120 degrees at Kingsville and Corpus Christi on the 25th and 27th.
• Heat in Nevada, June 26, 20231 death · 1 eventOne person died in Las Vegas of heat-related causes.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 26 to 30, 2023$400,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 18 miles south of Pagosa Springs.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, June 26 to 28, 202346 eventsA second period of excessive heat was experienced across all of North and Central Texas late in the month.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 27 to 30, 2023$250,000 · 1 eventA wildfire began from unknown causes 21 miles south of Durango near Bondad.
• Heat in Arizona, June 27 to 29, 20237 deaths · 6 eventsDry southwesterly flow aloft with a strong ridge of high pressure to the east over the Southern Plains led to temperatures climbing near or in excess of 110 degrees in Phoenix at the end of June.
• Wildfire in California, June 27 to 29, 2023$3.0 million · 1 eventThe Juniper Fire started near Perris, CA around 7:30 PM PDT on June 27th and burned 68 acres. Four structures, including two homes, as well as some vehicles were burned in the fire as well. Evacuation orders were also in place for roughly 6 hours as a result of the fire.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, June 28 to 29, 202311 injured · 25 eventsA ridge of high pressure in the middle and upper atmosphere developed over the south central United States during late June.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 28 to 30, 2023$600,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 12 miles west of Pagosa Springs.
• Heat in Nevada, June 29, 20231 death · 1 eventOne person died in Las Vegas of heat-related causes.
• Excessive Heat in Kentucky, June 29 to 30, 202322 eventsExcessive heat and humidity invaded western Kentucky for the first time in the 2023 summer season. Peak heat indices ranged from 115 to 120 degrees at most locations on the 30th. On the 29th, thunderstorms kept most areas east of Kentucky Lake relatively cool.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, June 29 to 30, 202319 eventsExcessive heat and humidity invaded southern Illinois for the first time in the 2023 summer season. Peak heat indices were around 115 degrees at most locations on the 30th. On the 29th, thunderstorms kept most areas east of Interstate 57 relatively cool.
• Excessive Heat and Hail in Tennessee, June 29, 20231 death · $71,000 · 2.75 in hail · 18 eventsA Mesoscale Convective System (MCS) developed over Illinois and Indiana early on June 29, 2023, and traveled southward into Middle Tennessee by late morning and early afternoon.
• Excessive Heat and Damaging Winds in Tennessee, June 30, 2023$493,000 · 56 kt wind · 40 eventsThe first part of the day on June 30, 2023, was characterized by dangerous hot and humid conditions across most of Middle Tennessee as heat index values soared to 115 to 125 degrees. With these hot temperatures, an abundant amount of instability was in place across the area.
• Wildfire in Idaho, June 30, 2023$9.2 million · 1 eventThe Consalus fire started on June 30 from lightning.
• Heat in California, June 30, 202321 eventsA large area of high pressure strengthened off the California coast on June 29 then build inland into California on June 30. This resulted in the first heat wave of the season across the area between June 30 and July 3.
• Heat in Texas, June 30, 20231 death · 5 eventsDangerous heat continued into the last day of June for the Coastal Bend and western Brush Country.
• Drought in South Dakota, July 1 to 31, 2023$93 million · 22 eventsConditions averaged cooler than average (1 to 3 degrees below normal) and slightly moist (100-150 percent of normal) across southeast South Dakota during July, with a slight improvement of drought conditions.
• Drought in Missouri, July 1 to 31, 2023$850,000 · 19 eventsWhile some locations saw improvement from Extreme (D3) Drought by the end of July Extreme drought remained for portions of west central and central Missouri.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, July 1 to 2, 202344 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that had dominated the weather across the southwest US pushed east into the Mid-South toward the end of June and continued into early July.
• Drought in Kansas, July 1 to 31, 202326 eventsExceptional drought (D4) and severe drought (D3) continued across much of the region during the July.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Tennessee, July 1 to 2, 202326 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that had dominated the weather across the southwest US pushed east into the Mid-South toward the end of June and continued into early July.
• Drought in Illinois, July 1 to 31, 202324 eventsSevere Drought Conditions (D2) that developed in June continued into July across portions of central Illinois, primarily north of I-72. Some burn bans were in effect at the start of the month, and there were increased fire concerns around the July 4 holiday.
• Drought in Wisconsin, July 1 to 31, 202324 eventsBelow normal rainfall was noted at many location in May and June which resulted in |Abnormally Dry (D0) and Moderate Drought (D1) conditions at the beginning of the month.
• Drought in Nebraska, July 1 to 31, 202322 eventsDuring July 2023, at least parts of 22 of the 24 South Central Nebraska counties spent the entire month assigned at least Severe Drought (D2) by the U.S.
• Drought in Illinois, July 1 to 31, 202321 eventsAn abnormally dry start to summer 2023 carried over into July with the majority of the CWA entering the month in a severe drought. However, several noteworthy rain events throughout the month brought a good deal of relief to much of the area.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 2023$4.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire started from unknown causes 5 miles southwest of Parachute.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 26, 2023$600,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 12 miles west of Pagosa Springs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 12, 2023$400,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 18 miles south of Pagosa Springs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 12, 2023$250,000 · 1 eventA wildfire began from unknown causes 21 miles south of Durango near Bondad.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 1 to 31, 2023$9.2 million · 1 eventThe Consalus fire started on June 30 from lightning and continued through July.
• Excessive Heat and Damaging Winds in Tennessee, July 1, 2023$596,000 · 61 kt wind · 59 eventsA line of thunderstorms tracked eastward across Middle Tennessee early in the afternoon of July 1, 2023. With an abundant amount of instability in place, these thunderstorms quickly became severe with damaging winds the primary threat.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 1 to 9, 202313 deaths · 9 eventsPersistent strong high pressure aloft created an extended period of very hot temperatures in early July across the lower elevations of southeast Arizona.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 1 to 5, 202311 deaths · 24 eventsA strong ridge of high pressure situated over the Desert Southwest led to excessive heat conditions across the region to start off July. High temperatures in Phoenix during this time ranged between 111-116 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in California, July 1 to 2, 202331 eventsA large area of high pressure remained centered over California on July 1 and 2 maintaining much above normal temperatures overt the area with several locations nearing climatological daily records.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, July 1 to 3, 20235 deaths · 5 eventsExcessive Heat Warning criteria were reached on three straight days. Five people died in the Las Vegas Valley as a result.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 1 to 3, 20231 death · 7 eventsExcessive Heat Warning criteria were reached on three straight days. One person died in Death Valley as a result.
• Heat in Arizona, July 2, 20231 death · 1 eventOne person in northern Mohave County died of heat-related causes.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 2 to 31, 2023$5.0 million · 1 eventDuring a period of hot, dry and windy conditions a wildfire erupted near Underwood, Washington. The fire was reported on July 2nd 1119 PDT. The cause of the fire is under investigation and was expected to be contained by August.
• Heat in Texas, July 3 to 8, 20235 deaths · 4 eventsAs temperatures started to climb for the summer, a few heat-related fatalities were reported in the DFW Metroplex area.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 6 to 10, 202326 deaths · 19 eventsThe Desert Southwest continued to remain under the influence of an upper level ridge of high pressure during the July 6-10th time period. As a result, high temperatures in Phoenix continued to reach or exceed 110 degrees each day with the 6th reaching a high of 115 degrees.
• Heat in Florida, July 6, 20231 death · 1 eventHot and very moist southerly winds across South Florida led to heat index values in the 105 to 109 range across the area.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 7 to 31, 2023$300,000 · 1 eventFire started on July 7 from lightning.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, July 8 to 12, 202336 eventsThe upper level ridge over northern Mexico moved back into the south Texas region by the 8th. The ridge built over the region through the middle part of the month. With high humidity, the heat index values became dangerously high again.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, July 8 to 12, 202325 eventsAfter a brief reprieve from the high heat and humidity, conditions that dominated much of June returned in abundance between July 8th and 12th.
• Heat in Nevada, July 9 to 13, 20234 deaths · 1 eventFour people died of heat-related causes in the Las Vegas Valley.
• Heat in Arizona, July 9 to 13, 202317 deaths · 4 eventsStrong high pressure continued to create hot temperatures 3 to 5 degrees above normal July 9-13 in parts of southeast Arizona and caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. A total of 18 heat-related fatalities were reported by the Pima County Medical Examiner.
• Heat in Texas, July 10 to 31, 20236 deaths · 25 injured · 46 eventsThe start of what would be one of the hottest summer months on record began in July. North and Central Texas experienced above average temperatures from July 10 through the end of the month.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 10 to 28, 202323 eventsStrong high pressure settled over South Central Texas, and temperatures soared. The heat wave started on the 10th when temperatures in Blanco, Caldwell, De Witt, Hays, Llano and Travis Counties reached 105 degrees, and the heat index in Maverick County reached 114.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 10 to 12, 2023$300,000 · 1 eventA rollover accident sparked a wildfire along Interstate 70 in eastern Utah, east of Cisco.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 10 to 16, 2023$710,000 · 1 eventFire started on July 10 from unknown cause.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 11 to 22, 2023240 deaths · 35 eventsA very strong ridge of high pressure strengthened over the Desert Southwest during the middle part of the month, resulting in well above normal temperatures and excessive heat conditions.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 11 to 14, 202346 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 11th through 14th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 12 to 13, 20231 death · 9 injured · 46 eventsDangerously hot conditions plagued just about all of North and Central Texas in mid July, with heat indices at or above 110 along with ambient temperatures at or above 105.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 12 to 13, 202324 eventsContinued excessive heat occurred during most of July. The first stretch reaching warning criteria was on the 12th through the 14th, with most other days reaching Heat Advisory Levels.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, July 12 to 13, 20239 injured · 24 eventsA ridge of high pressure in the middle and upper atmosphere developed over the south central United States during mid July.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, July 12 to 14, 202361 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 11th through 14th.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 12 to 14, 2023$800,000 · 1 eventFire started on July 12 from unknown cause.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, July 13, 202318 eventsA ridge sat over the southwestern portion of the CONUS in the middle of July. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, July 13, 20231 death · 6 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure remained anchored over the Southern Plains on July 13th, although a portion of its influence extended farther east into the Lower Mississippi Valley.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 13, 202321 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure remained anchored over the Southern Plains on July 13th, although a portion of its influence extended farther east into the Lower Mississippi Valley.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, July 13 to 17, 202334 eventsThe upper level ridge maintained the heat wave episode over south Texas through mid July.
• Heat in Texas, July 13 to 18, 202321 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure remained anchored over the Southern Plains on July 13th, although a portion of its influence extended farther east into the Lower Mississippi Valley.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 13 to 18, 202317 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure remained anchored over the Southern Plains on July 13th, although a portion of its influence extended farther east into the Lower Mississippi Valley.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 14 to 30, 202366 deaths · 10 eventsPersistent strong high pressure aloft created an extended period of very hot temperatures July 14-30 across southeast Arizona. High temperatures were 5 to 14 degrees above normal causing the Major Heat Risk category to be reached and numerous high temperatures to be established.
• Heat in Texas, July 14, 20232 deaths · 2 eventsThere were two heat-related fatalities in the Houston area. Temperatures remained around 100 degrees with heat index values of 110 or higher at times.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, July 14 to 18, 20236 deaths · 7 eventsA severe long-duration heat wave covered much of the southwest US for ten days (this episode continues under July 19-23 Excessive Heat). A total of 13 people died of heat-related causes in Clark County during the heat wave.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 14 to 18, 20231 death · 7 eventsA severe long-duration heat wave covered much of the southwest US for ten days (this episode continues under July 19-23 Excessive Heat). One person died of heat-related causes in Death Valley.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in California, July 15 to 17, 202333 eventsA large area of upper high pressure build westward over the Desert Southwest region on July 13 and 14 and became centered over northern Arizona by July 15 resulting in near record heat taking place across the area.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 15, 2023$250,000 · 1 eventA fire at a private residence got out of control in Chubbuck destroying a house, camper trailer, and 5 cars as 20 to 30 mph southwest winds drove a brush fire. The fire was near the 11000 block of Philbin Road.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, July 16, 202336 eventsA ridge sat over the southwestern portion of the CONUS in the middle of July. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 16, 20231 death · 1 eventStrong persistent high pressure centered over the Desert Southwest led to dangerous excessive heat conditions across the region during the middle part of July. Anomalous, record-breaking heat was observed during the month, providing little relief.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 16 to 31, 2023$300,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire near Meeker.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, July 17 to 20, 202363 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 17th through 20th.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 17 to 20, 202352 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 17th through 20th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 17 to 20, 20232 deaths · 17 injured · 28 eventsA strong high pressure ridge aloft contributed to another round of excessive heat across much of North and Central Texas July 17th through the 20th.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 17 to 21, 2023$200,000 · 1 eventWildfire started on July 17 by human causes.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 18 to 19, 202321 eventsA large upper level ridge of high pressure over the Rockies and Southern Plains amplified east into the Four State Region on July 18th and persisted through the 19th, resulting in afternoon temperatures climbing into the upper 90s to in excess of 100 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, July 18 to 21, 202362 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that dominated the weather across the southwest US during the summer of 2023 pushed east into the Mid-South toward the middle of July.
• Heat in Tennessee, July 18 to 20, 202332 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that dominated the weather across the southwest US during the summer of 2023 pushed east into the Mid-South toward the middle of July. High temperatures combined with high humidity produced heat index values over 105 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, July 18 to 20, 202325 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that dominated the weather across the southwest US during the summer of 2023 pushed east into the Mid-South toward the middle of July.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, July 18 to 20, 202310 injured · 21 eventsA ridge of high pressure in the middle and upper atmosphere developed over the south central United States during mid July.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, July 18 to 22, 202330 eventsThe upper level ridge remained over Texas into the latter part of the month of July and maintained the heat wave over south Texas. Afternoon heat index values ranged from 110 to 120 degrees over the Coastal Bend into portions of the Brush Country.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 18 to 31, 2023$510,000 · 1 eventLightning caused fire on July 18 in Shoshone County.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, July 19 to 23, 20237 deaths · 7 eventsA severe long-duration heat wave covered much of the southwest US for ten days (this episode begins under July 14-18 Excessive Heat). A total of 13 people died of heat-related causes in Clark County during the heat wave.
• Heat and Damaging Wind in Florida, July 19, 20231 death · $1,000 · 2 eventsA heat advisory was in effect for heat index values of 108-112F. Sea breeze storms across north-central Florida produced localized wet downbursts.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 20 to 21, 2023$820,000 · 1 eventWildfire started from unknown cause on July 20.
• Excessive Heat in Mississippi, July 21, 20231 death · 1 eventIn the midst of a prolonged heat wave, the combination of dangerous heat and humidity resulted in a fatality in northeastern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in California, July 21 to 23, 202331 eventsA large area of upper high pressure strengthened over the Desert Southwest region on July 21 and brought a period of dangerous heat to much of the area between July 21 and July 23. The ridge weakened by July 24 which allowed for a slight cooling trend to take place by July 25.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 21 to 31, 2023$2.4 million · 1 eventTyson Fire started on July 21 from unknown cause.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, July 22, 202318 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 23 to 29, 2023114 deaths · 32 eventsA persistent strong ridge of high pressure over the region led to well above normal temperatures for the end of July. Afternoon highs during this time exceeded 110 degrees each day in Phoenix with the 25th recording a high of 119 degrees.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 24 to 28, 2023$358,000 · 1 eventLightning started the wildfire on July 24.
• Excessive Heat in South Dakota, July 25 to 28, 202324 eventsStrong high pressure and elevated near surface moisture resulted in a multi-day heat wave across southeast South Dakota, southwest Minnesota, northwest Iowa, and northeast Nebraska from July 25-28.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 25 to 30, 202384 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 25th through 30th.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 25 to 26, 2023$50,000 · 1 eventA wildfire started from unknown causes near 5537 Highway 6.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 26 to 31, 2023$2.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning in the Gunnison National Forest, 11 miles southwest of Crested Butte, Colorado.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, July 26 to 28, 202322 eventsHigh temperatures ranging from the middle 80s to middle 90s and dewpoint temperatures in the upper 70s and lower 80s resulted in a few days of uncomfortably hot weather across northern and central Illinois from the 26th through the 28th.
• Excessive Heat in Missouri, July 27 to 29, 202350 injured · 12 eventsStrong upper level ridge built up over the region from July 25th through 29th. This ushered in much warmer air and higher dewpoints. So heat index values 100+ were reported from July 25th through 29th.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, July 27 to 28, 20231 death · 35 eventsA two-day stretch of excessive heat impacted much of the Midwest, including all of central and southeastern Illinois. High temperatures climbed into the 90s while dewpoint temperatures were in the upper 70s or low 80s, resulting in heat indices of 100 to 115 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Illinois, July 27 to 29, 202338 eventsA heat wave brought three consecutive days of heat indices near or above 105 degrees. Excessive heat occurred on the afternoons of the 27th and 28th, when heat indices peaked around 110 degrees. Peak heat indices ranged from 103 to 109 degrees on the 29th.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Kentucky, July 27 to 29, 202327 eventsA heat wave brought three consecutive days of heat indices near or above 105 degrees. Excessive heat occurred over the Henderson/Owensboro region on the afternoons of the 27th and 28th, when heat indices peaked mostly from 109 to 115 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Missouri, July 27 to 29, 202322 eventsA heat wave brought three consecutive days of heat indices near or above 105 degrees. Excessive heat occurred on the afternoons of the 27th and 28th, when heat indices peaked from 107 to around 120 degrees.
• Heat in Tennessee, July 27 to 29, 202357 eventsA large ridge and associated area of surface high pressure accompanied by return flow allowed for heat headlines to continue for several days.
• Heat in Mississippi, July 27 to 29, 202351 eventsA large ridge and associated area of surface high pressure accompanied by return flow allowed for heat headlines to continue for several days.
• Heat in Arkansas, July 27 to 29, 202330 eventsA large ridge and associated area of surface high pressure accompanied by return flow allowed for heat headlines to continue for several days.
• Excessive Heat in Nebraska, July 28, 202321 eventsJuly 28 was a hot day as temperatures warmed into the mid-90s and low 100s. The highest observed temperature was 102 at Omaha Eppley Airfield. Heat indices that day ranged from 110 to 120 degrees.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 28 to 31, 2023$400,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 20 miles northwest of Pagosa Springs in the San Juan National Forest.
• Heat in Nevada, July 29, 20231 death · 1 eventOne person died in the Las Vegas Valley of heat-related causes.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 29 to 31, 2023$8.0 million · 1 eventThe wildfire started on July 29 from unknown cause.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, July 30, 202318 eventsAn expansive and slow-moving ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS at the end of July. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Heat in Texas, July 30 to 31, 202321 eventsAn upper ridge of high pressure became anchored over the Southern Rockies and extended east into the Ozarks and Central Arkansas on July 30th, with the center of the ridge shifting east into the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles on the 31st.
• Heat in Arizona, July 30 to 31, 20234 deaths · 3 eventsStrong high pressure continued to create hot temperatures 2 to 8 degrees above normal July 30-31 in parts of southeast Arizona and caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 30, 2023$300,000 · 1 eventGusty westerly winds combined with low humidity to create conditions supportive of fire growth during the afternoon and evening hours.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, July 31, 202336 eventsAn expansive and slow-moving ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS at the end of July. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 31, 202321 eventsAn upper ridge of high pressure shifted east into the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles on July 31st.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 31, 2023$500,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 12 miles west-southwest of Delta in the Dominguez Escalante National Conservation Area.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 31, 202320 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 31st.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 31, 2023$1.7 million · 1 eventWest Hallett Fire started on July 31 from unknown cause.
• Drought in Louisiana, August 1 to 31, 2023$4.0 million · 4 eventsThe combined effects of persistent above-normal temperatures and minimal precipitation starting in early July 2023 resulted in mounting drought impacts across portions of central and northeast Louisiana.
• Drought in Missouri, August 1 to 31, 2023$1.9 million · 17 eventsSome locations saw improvement from Extreme (D3) Drought by the end of August Extreme drought remained for portions of west central Missouri.
• Drought in Kansas, August 1 to 31, 2023$750,000 · 3 eventsSeveral locations saw improvement from Extreme (D3) Drought by the end of August. Extreme drought remained for a small portion of Bourbon County. Severe (D2) Drought conditions lingered across portions southeastern Kansas through the end of August.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 1, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Drought in Kansas, August 1 to 31, 202324 eventsNarrative will be added later.
• Heat in Louisiana, August 1 to 31, 202322 eventsA historic heat wave was observed across much of the deep south during the month of August. Most climate sites tied or broke streaks of 100 degree days and all sites set all time highs.
• Drought in Nebraska, August 1 to 31, 202322 eventsDuring August 2023, at least parts of 20 of the 24 South Central Nebraska counties spent the entire month assigned at least Severe Drought (D2) by the U.S.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 202319 eventsThe hot, dry summer continued this month. Nearly all of South Central Texas had less than normal rainfall. Most of the area northeast of a line from Kerrville to Karnes City received less than 25% of normal, and for most of our counties the drought worsened.
• Drought in Iowa, August 1 to 31, 202318 eventsAbove normal temperatures and lack of rainfall led to severe and extreme drought conditions for all of August for portions of Iowa.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 202317 eventsThe drought intensified for areas of west central Texas, south of I-20 during the month of August.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, August 1 to 7, 202358 deaths · 38 eventsA strong ridge of high pressure over the Southern Plains expanded westward into the Desert Southwest, leading to excessive heat conditions across the region.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 2023$4.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire started from unknown causes 5 miles southwest of Parachute.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 2023$2.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning in the Gunnison National Forest, 11 miles southwest of Crested Butte, Colorado.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 2023$500,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 12 miles west-southwest of Delta in the Dominguez Escalante National Conservation Area.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 2023$400,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 20 miles northwest of Pagosa Springs in the San Juan National Forest.
• Drought in New Mexico, August 1 to 31, 202334 eventsHot and dry conditions continued during the month of August across northern and central New Mexico.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 1 to 31, 2023$9.9 million · 1 eventIt started on July 29 and continued to be monitored through August.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 1 to 30, 2023$9.2 million · 1 eventThe Consalus fire started on June 30 from lightning and continued August 30.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 1 to 15, 2023$1.7 million · 1 eventWest Hallett Fire started on July 31 from unknown cause. It was contained on August 8.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 1 to 31, 2023$500,000 · 1 eventFire started on July 7 from lightning. It continued through August.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 1 to 31, 2023$150,000 · 1 eventLightning caused fire on July 18 in Shoshone County. It continued through August.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 1 to 4, 202332 injured · 25 eventsA ridge of high pressure in the middle and upper atmosphere developed over the south central United States during early August.
• Heat in Texas, August 1 to 5, 202319 eventsA continuation of high heat and humidity was experienced across the region to begin August.
• Heat in Arizona, August 1 to 3, 202311 deaths · 3 eventsHot temperatures 2 to 4 degrees above normal August 1-3 in parts of southeast Arizona caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. A total of 11 heat-related fatalities were reported by the Pima County Medical Examiner.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 1 to 6, 20239 deaths · 6 eventsHigh pressure aloft strengthened over Arizona and created a period of very hot temperatures August 4-6 across southeast Arizona.
• Heat in Oklahoma, August 1 to 5, 202368 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 1st through 5th.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 1 to 5, 202356 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 1st through 5th.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, August 1 to 14, 202315 deaths · 501 injured · 92 eventsThe hot summer continued into August, with temperatures reaching at least Heat Advisory criteria area-wide for the first half of the month.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, August 1 to 5, 20231 death · 25 eventsUpper level high pressure ridge maintained the summer heat wave into August over south Texas.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, August 1 to 31, 202318 eventsExcessive heat was observed nearly every day of August across parts of South Central Texas. The heat wave started on the 1st in Blanco, Caldwell, De Witt, Lavaca, Llano, Gonzales, Guadalupe, and Travis Counties when temperatures reached 105 to 107.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 13, 2023$350,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 3 miles east-northeast of Yellow Jacket Pass in Montezuma County.
• Heat in Nevada, August 2 to 6, 202310 deaths · 1 eventTen people died in the Las Vegas Valley of heat-related causes.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 2, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, August 2 to 7, 202355 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that dominated the weather across the southwest US during the summer of 2023 bulged east into the Mid-South at times during the month of August.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, August 2 to 5, 202322 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that dominated the weather across the southwest US during the summer of 2023 bulged east into the Mid-South at times during the month of August.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 3 to 31, 2023$24 million · 1 eventRidge Creek Wildfire started on August 3 by unknown causes.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 4, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 4, 20231 death · 1 eventA strong, elongated upper level ridge situated across the Desert Southwest and the Southern Plains, leading to well above normal temperatures and excessive heat conditions. The official temperature in Phoenix peaked at 115 degrees during the afternoon on the 4th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, August 5 to 15, 202333 eventsThe extremely hot and humid summer continued with excessive heat warnings for most days between 8/5 and 8/26, and heat advisories for many others. This episode includes the first of two stretches of warning level conditions.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 5 to 10, 2023$500,000 · 1 eventRed Flag conditions were observed with relative humidity less than 30% and winds 10-15 mph when a wildfire started on the 8th in Hays County.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 5, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 5 to 31, 2023$1.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning approximately three miles into the South San Juan Wilderness, 13 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
• Excessive Heat in Alabama, August 5 to 9, 202331 eventsAn upper level heat ridge that entrenched itself over the Southern Plains states during the summer shifted eastward into Alabama in early August.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 5 to 31, 2023$5.0 million · 1 eventBuckskin 2 Wildfire was started on August 5 by unknown causes.
• Excessive Heat in Florida, August 6 to 9, 202383 eventsThe combination of above average temperatures and above average dewpoints resulted in high heat index values in excess of 113 over a large portion of northwest Florida during the August 6-9 time period.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Alabama, August 6, 202317 eventsHeat index values climbed to over 105 degrees as early as 10 AM and continued to rise into the 110 to 120 degree range in some locations through the afternoon hours in northwestern and north central Alabama.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 6, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Heat in Texas, August 6 to 10, 202352 eventsPersistent mid-level ridging aloft combined with ample low-level moisture to provide high heat and humidity across the Rio Grande Valley and Deep South Texas much of August.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, August 6 to 10, 202344 eventsUpper level ridge moved over south Texas toward the end of the Dog Days of August. This led to dangerous to excessive heat conditions across the Coastal Bend, Victoria Crossroads and western Brush Country.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 6 to 14, 2023$25,000 · 2 eventsThe Double Back Fire in Johnson County burned a total of 1320 acres in an area southwest of Godley. The Craft Fire burned 1112 acres in northeast Jack County.
• Excessive Heat in Georgia, August 7 to 8, 202321 eventsThe combination of above average temperatures and above average dewpoints resulted in high heat index values in excess of 113 over a large portion of southwest and south central Georgia during the August 7-8 time period.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 7, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Heat in Arizona, August 7 to 10, 202311 deaths · 2 eventsHot temperatures up to 6 degrees above normal August 7-10 in parts of southeast Arizona caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. A total of 11 heat-related fatalities were reported by the Pima County Medical Examiner.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 8 to 16, 2023102 deaths · 32 injured · $5.6 billion · 3 eventsOn August 8, several wildfires ignited over Maui and the Big Island. Very strong trade winds, low relative humidity, and ongoing drought conditions across leeward sections led to rapid fire growth and spread.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 8 to 13, 2023$2.0 million · 3 eventsRed Flag conditions were observed with relative humidity as low as low as 20% and winds 10-20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and a number of fires started.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 8, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 8 to 12, 202357 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 8th through 12th.
• Heat in Oklahoma, August 8 to 12, 202341 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 8th through 12th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, August 8, 20231 death · 1 eventAn infant died after being left in a hot car in the southeastern part of Houston.
• Heat in Arizona, August 9 to 14, 202324 deaths · 11 eventsAn upper level ridge shifted into the Interior Mountain West from the eastern Pacific during the period between the 9-14th, keeping temperatures above normal during this time.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 9, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, August 9 to 14, 202321 eventsAn upper ridge of high pressure strengthened farther into Oklahoma and Texas through mid August.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 10, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Florida, August 11 to 15, 2023109 eventsThe combination of above average temperatures and above average dewpoints resulted in high heat index values in excess of 113 over a large portion of northwest Florida during the August 11-15 time period.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, August 11 to 14, 202366 eventsAnother heat wave impacted the region as the result of a building ridge over east Texas and Louisiana. Heat index values reached or exceeded 105 degrees.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 11, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Tennessee, August 11 to 14, 202318 eventsAnother heat wave impacted the region as the result of a building ridge over east Texas and Louisiana. Heat index values reached or exceeded 105 degrees.
• Heat in Texas, August 11 to 15, 202336 eventsA stubborn area of high pressure combined with ample surface moisture led to more heat advisory criteria across the region.
• Excessive Heat in Mississippi, August 11 to 12, 20231 death · 2 injured · 1 eventIn the midst of a prolonged heat wave affecting the region, dangerous heat and humidity caused a fatality in southeast Mississippi on August 11th.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 11 to 13, 202311 injured · 37 eventsA ridge of high pressure in the middle and upper atmosphere developed over the south central United States during mid August.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, August 11 to 15, 202345 eventsDangerous heat wave continued into the middle parts of August as the upper level ridge of high pressure remained over south Texas. Excessive heat persisted over the Coastal Bend region from the 11th to the 14th.
• Excessive Heat in Alabama, August 11 to 15, 202336 eventsAlabama continued to be under the influence of an upper level ridge positioned over the southern United States during the second week of August.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Alabama, August 12 to 14, 202319 eventsTemperatures climbing to between 88 and 95 degrees along with dewpoints in the 78 to 82 degree range allowed heat index values to climb above 105 degrees during the late morning or early afternoon hours the 12th through the 14th.
• Excessive Heat in Georgia, August 12 to 14, 202378 eventsThe combination of above average temperatures and above average dewpoints resulted in high heat index values in excess of 113 over a large portion of southwest and south central Georgia during the August 12-14 time period.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 12, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 12 to 31, 2023$100,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 29 miles north of Loma near Douglas Pass.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 13, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Heat in Arizona, August 13, 20231 death · 1 eventHot temperatures around 5 degrees above normal August 13 in Pima County caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 13, 202322 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 13th.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 14, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Oregon, August 14 to 16, 20235 deaths · 1 eventHigh pressure brought extreme heat and heat related impacts to the area. Daily temperature records were set for multiple locations, with the hottest day being Monday August 14.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 14 to 21, 2023$40,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire north of Rangely.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, August 15 to 17, 202321 deaths · 24 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure strengthened over the Intermountain West going into the latter part of August, leading to excessive heat conditions across south-central Arizona.
• Wildfire in California, August 15 to 31, 202323 injured · $2.3 million · 1 eventLingering moisture from a dissipated tropical system brought dry thunderstorms to Northwest California from the evening of August 14th through the morning of August 15th. Over 1,000 lightning strikes occurred in 24 hours with numerous new wildfires across the region.
• Excessive Heat in North Carolina, August 15, 202317 eventsA three-day heatwave ended with excessive heat being observed across Eastern NC. The heatwave began on Sunday, August 13th, with heat indices of 105 to 100 degrees. This pattern continued on Monday, August 14th with similar values.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 15, 202327 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, August 16, 20236 deaths · 3 eventsVery hot temperatures were observed across southeast Arizona August 16. Both high and low temperatures were 4 to 9 degrees above normal causing the Moderate to Major Heat Risk categories to be reached.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, August 16 to 20, 202320 eventsThe upper level ridge shifted to the west and north of the region during the period from August 16th to the 20th. Dangerous heat conditions persisted mainly over the Coastal Bend during this period.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 16 to 21, 2023$150,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 8 miles east of Rangely.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, August 17 to 27, 20234 deaths · 837 injured · 92 eventsAfter a small reprieve from the heat (thanks to a weak cold front) during the middle of August, the heat returned on the 17th and continued through August 27. The hottest temperatures of the year in North and Central Texas were recorded in this 10-day stretch.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 17 to 21, 202383 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 17th through 21st.
• Heat in Oklahoma, August 17 to 21, 202359 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 17th through 21st.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, August 18 to 27, 202321 eventsA strong upper-level ridge of high pressure intensified and expanded farther northeast from the Southern Plains into the mid-section of U.S. through much of mid to late August.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 18 to 31, 2023$2.4 million · 1 eventLightning started the Crater Creek Wildfire on August 18.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 18 to 31, 20232 deaths · $75 million · 2 eventsAn incoming system brought strong winds and dry air into the Spokane Area. Two wildfires were started by unknown causes and quickly spread through residential areas. A total of 270 structures were lost or damaged.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 18 to 22, 2023$300,000 · 1 eventWinona Wildfire started by unknown causes on August 18.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 19, 202327 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 19 to 26, 202345 injured · 25 eventsA ridge of high pressure in the middle and upper atmosphere redeveloped over the south central United States during late August.
• Excessive Heat in Nebraska, August 19 to 25, 20231 death · 30 eventsAn Excessive Heat Warning was in effect for portions of the forecast area for 7 days as a heat wave dominated the area. This was the longest duration Excessive Heat Warning that the Omaha office has issued.
• Heat in Nebraska, August 19 to 25, 202324 eventsAcross most of the 24-county South Central Nebraska area, the seven-day stretch from Saturday the 19th through Friday the 25th went down in the books as the overall-hottest week in between 11 and 35 years, and one of the hottest on record for so late in the summer, making for an…
• Excessive Heat and Heat in South Dakota, August 19, 202321 eventsAn expanding upper-level ridge across the southern and central U.S. pushed heat into the region, as moisture pooled just ahead of an advancing frontal zone. The combination of heat and higher dewpoints resulted in afternoon and early evening heat indices from 100 to 115 degrees.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 19 to 25, 2023$25,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire near De Beque Canyon just west of Interstate 70.
• Heat in Missouri, August 19 to 25, 202337 eventsStarting on August 19, 2023 well-above normal temperatures impacted the central part of the United States, kicking off a heatwave that has not been experienced in the region in recent history.
• Excessive Heat in Missouri, August 20 to 25, 202387 injured · 29 eventsA period of very hot and extremely humid weather began on Sunday, August 20 and lasted through Friday, August 25. Although the temperature rarely threatened climatological records, the humidity caused the heat index to reach extreme levels.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, August 20 to 25, 202317 eventsA period of very hot and extremely humid weather began on Sunday, August 20 and lasted through Friday, August 25. Although the temperature rarely threatened climatological records, the humidity caused the heat index to reach extreme levels.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Tennessee, August 20 to 31, 202348 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that dominated the weather across the southwest US during the summer of 2023 bulged east into the Mid-South at times during the month of August.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, August 20 to 26, 202346 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that dominated the weather across the southwest US during the summer of 2023 bulged east into the Mid-South at times during the month of August.
• Excessive Heat in Kentucky, August 20 to 25, 202322 eventsA large ridge of high pressure aloft set up over the center of the country around August 20th, leading to a week-long heatwave across western Kentucky.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, August 20 to 26, 202321 eventsThe strong upper ridge of high pressure that dominated the weather across the southwest US during the summer of 2023 bulged east into the Mid-South at times during the month of August.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, August 20 to 25, 202319 eventsA large ridge of high pressure aloft set up over the center of the country around August 20th, leading to a week-long heatwave across southern Illinois.
• Excessive Heat in Indiana, August 20 to 25, 202337 eventsA very broad and stacked ridge of subtropical high pressure built northward over most of the United States, bringing unseasonable heat and at times record high dewpoints to much of the Midwest.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, August 20 to 25, 202335 eventsA strong heat dome over the Midwest resulted in a six-day stretch of dangerous heat and humidity, which began on August 20 and continued through August 25.
• Excessive Heat in South Dakota, August 21 to 24, 20231 death · 24 eventsAn immense ridge of high pressure over the Central Plains and Mississippi Valley entrenched heat and high dewpoint air across the region, resulting in daily heat indices from 100 to around 120, with very little recovery during the overnight hours.
• Excessive Heat in South Dakota, August 21 to 23, 202325 eventsA heat dome to the south resulted in temperatures topping out in the 90s to just over 100 degrees, with dewpoints in the 70s to low 80s, generating heat index values in excess of 100 degrees for a three day period.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Alabama, August 21 to 26, 202319 eventsHeat index values reached 105-109 on successive days, peaking at 110 or better on the 23rd, 24th and 25th. On the 21st, four high school football players were treated for heat illnesses in Huntsville.
• Excessive Heat in Minnesota, August 22 to 23, 202333 eventsExcessive Heat occurred through much of Central and Southern MN through the afternoon of August 22nd, 2023. A warm front stalled over the region which allowed for a continued supply of warm moist air into the region.
• Heat in Oklahoma, August 22 to 26, 202373 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions of the area during the afternoon/evening of the 22nd through 26th.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 22 to 26, 202365 eventsHot temperatures and high humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices of 110-115+ degrees across portions of southern, central and northern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 22nd through 26th.
• Wildfire in Louisiana, August 22 to 31, 2023$23 million · 3 eventsExceptional drought conditions and very high temperatures led to very dry fuels across the region. Several wildfires ignited in the area by the end of the month.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, August 23 to 27, 202333 eventsThe extremely hot and humid summer continued with excessive heat warnings for most days between 8/5 and 8/26, and heat advisories for many others. This episode includes the second of two stretches of warning level conditions.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 23, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, August 23 to 24, 202322 eventsHigh temperatures reached the middle to upper 90s on August 23rd. Dewpoints were in the upper 70s to lower 80s producing heat index values in the 115 to 120 degree range during the afternoon.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Wisconsin, August 23 to 24, 202323 eventsWesterly winds brought a very hot and humid air mass into southern WI ahead of a slow moving cold front. Extreme heat index values were observed over much of southern WI for two days.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 24, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 24 to 29, 2023$7.0 million · 1 eventExceptional drought conditions and very high temperatures lead to very dry fuels across the region. Several wildfires ignited in the area by the end of the month with the largest in Jasper County.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 25 to 30, 202335 deaths · 28 eventsA strong upper level ridge of high pressure over the Great Plains retrograded westward to the western United States, leading to excessive heat conditions across the region.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, August 25 to 30, 202311 deaths · 8 eventsHigh pressure aloft strengthened over Arizona and created a period of very hot temperatures August 25-30 across southeast Arizona.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 26, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, August 27, 202336 eventsAn expansive ridge sat over the southern portion of the CONUS. This ridge caused extreme record-breaking temperatures across much of the south, including southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi.
• Heat in Arizona, August 31, 20232 deaths · 1 eventHot temperatures around 5 degrees above normal caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. Two heat-related fatalities were reported by the Pima County Medical Examiner in the Tucson Metro area.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 202333 eventsMost of the region was in Extreme (D3) to Exceptional (D4) Drought for entire month of September.
• Drought in Louisiana, September 1 to 30, 2023$7.0 million · 9 eventsThe combined effects of persistent above-normal temperatures and minimal precipitation starting in early July 2023 resulted in mounting drought impacts across portions of central and northeast Louisiana.
• Drought in Kansas, September 1 to 30, 2023$950,000 · 2 eventsSome improvement occurred across far southeastern Kansas though Extreme (D3) Drought remained by the end of September. Extreme drought expanded slightly for a small portion of Bourbon County.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 202339 eventsSevere to exceptional drought conditions impacted North and Central Texas throughout the month of September. Minor improvement was seen late in the month after beneficial rainfall was received.
• Drought in Louisiana, September 1 to 30, 202336 eventsWith ridging sitting over the area for the better part of September, all of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi saw significantly less rainfall than usual for September. This lead to continuation of drought conditions during the whole month of September.
• Drought in Iowa, September 1 to 30, 202335 eventsA continuation of above normal temperatures and lack of rainfall contributed to a deterioration of drought conditions across central Iowa. A small area of Exceptional Drought developed in Tama county by the end of the month.
• Drought in Mississippi, September 1 to 30, 202333 eventsThe combined effects of persistent above-normal temperatures and minimal precipitation starting in early July 2023 resulted in mounting drought impacts across portions of much of southern and central Mississippi.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 202326 eventsSeptember was generally dry across South Central Texas and most of the area had no change in drought status. However, a few counties had enough rain to improve one category. Bandera, Llano, and Kerr went from Exceptional (D4) to Extreme (D3). Real went from D3 to Severe (D2).
• Drought in Kansas, September 1 to 30, 202324 eventsThere was little improvement during the month of September for Central, South Central and Southeastern Kansas. There remain large areas of extreme drought (D3) and some areas of exceptional drought (D4).
• Drought in Nebraska, September 1 to 30, 202320 eventsDuring September 2023, at least parts of 20 of the 24 South Central Nebraska counties spent the entire month assigned at least Severe Drought (D2) by the U.S.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 202320 eventsThe drought intensified across much of west central Texas during the month of September and eased up a little toward the end of the month.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 5, 2023$4.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire started from unknown causes 5 miles southwest of Parachute.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 2023$2.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning in the Gunnison National Forest, 11 miles southwest of Crested Butte, Colorado.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 2023$1.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning approximately three miles into the South San Juan Wilderness, 13 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 19, 2023$500,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 12 miles west-southwest of Delta in the Dominguez Escalante National Conservation Area.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 28, 2023$400,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 20 miles northwest of Pagosa Springs in the San Juan National Forest.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 18, 2023$100,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 29 miles north of Loma near Douglas Pass.
• Drought in New Mexico, September 1 to 30, 202335 eventsThe end of monsoon season for New Mexico saw continued near to below normal precipitation over much of the area. As a result, extreme drought expanded across sections of northwestern NM and into portions of the middle Rio Grande Valley that include the Albuquerque metro area.
• Wildfire in Washington, September 1 to 11, 2023$75 million · 2 eventsAn incoming system brought strong winds and dry air into the Spokane Area. Two wildfires were started by unknown human causes and quickly spread through residential areas. A total of 270 structures were lost or damaged.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 1 to 25, 2023$24 million · 1 eventRidge Creek Wildfire started on August 3 by unknown causes. It continued through September 25.
• Wildfire in Washington, September 1 to 5, 2023$2.4 million · 1 eventLightning started the Crater Creek Wildfire on August 18. It continued through September 6.
• Wildfire in Washington, September 1 to 26, 2023$500,000 · 1 eventFire started on July 7 from lightning. It continued to be monitored until September 26.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 1 to 21, 2023$150,000 · 1 eventLightning caused fire on July 18 in Shoshone County. It continued to be monitored through September 21.
• Heat in South Dakota, September 2 to 3, 202323 eventsA strong ridge of high pressure persisted through the Central and Southern Plains at the start of September and brought hot temperatures to the region with highs in the 90s to around 100 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, September 2 to 6, 20231 death · 23 eventsThe upper level ridge over northern Mexico moved back into south Texas with excessive heat returning to south Texas after the Labor Day holiday weekend. There was a fatality over the Labor Day weekend in Laredo when a 60 year old man passed away from a heat stroke.
• Heat in Nevada, September 3, 20231 death · 1 eventOne person died in Las Vegas of heat-related causes.
• Heat in Texas, September 4 to 6, 202329 eventsThe record breaking summer of 2023 just won't give up as high heat and humidity continued to impact the Rio Grande Valley and Deep South Texas in early September.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, September 4 to 5, 2023$95,000 · 1 eventHot temperatures, combined with very dry fuels, lead to a significant fire start and spread across portions of Cotton County.
• Heat in Texas, September 5, 202321 eventsAn upper-level ridge of high pressure expanded across the Southern Plains and extended eastward along the Gulf coast through the first week of September.
• Heat in Texas, September 5 to 9, 202333 eventsA heat wave gripped much of Southeast Texas in early September with advisory level conditions experienced for several days between September 5th and September 9th.
• Heat in Texas, September 5 to 9, 2023127 injured · 46 eventsStrong high pressure aloft produced unseasonably hot conditions across most of the region from September 5 through September 10.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, September 6 to 7, 202321 eventsAn upper-level ridge of high pressure expanded across the Southern Plains and extended eastward along the Gulf coast through the first week of September.
• Heat in Arizona, September 6, 20231 death · 1 eventHot temperatures around 5 degrees above normal caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. One heat-related fatality was reported by the Pima County Medical Examiner in the Benson area.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, September 6 to 10, 202312 deaths · 34 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure strengthened over the Desert Southwest during the time period between the 6-11th, leading to excessive heat conditions across parts of the region. In Phoenix, record high temperatures were set on the 8th, 9th, and 10th.
• Heat in Oklahoma, September 7 to 8, 202323 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions northern, central and southern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 7th and 8th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, September 7 to 8, 202337 eventsA strong high pressure ridge aloft brough unseasonably hot weather to much of North and Central Texas during the first week of September 2023.
• Heat in Arizona, September 8, 20231 death · 1 eventHot temperatures around 10 degrees above normal caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one individual found in the desert in southern Cochise County.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, September 9 to 10, 20234 deaths · 5 eventsVery hot temperatures were observed across southeast Arizona September 9 and 10. High temperatures were 10 to 14 degrees above normal causing the Major Heat Risk categories to be reached. A total of four heat-related fatalities were reported by the Pima County Medical Examiner.
• Drought in Oklahoma, September 12 to 30, 202319 eventsSevere (or greater) drought conditions expanded from southern into south-central Oklahoma over the course of the mid and late September period.
• Heat in Arizona, September 16, 20231 death · 1 eventHot temperatures 3 to 5 degrees above normal caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one individual found in the desert in east central Pima County.
• Heat in Arizona, September 16 to 18, 20235 deaths · 4 eventsAn amplified ridge of high pressure advanced eastward across the western United States during the middle part of the month, causing temperatures to climb above normal across the Phoenix area.
• Drought in American Samoa, September 17, 2023$50,000 · 1 eventThe US Drought Monitor issued a moderate drought that extended to the month of September. WSO Pago Pago recorded rainfall 7.1 inches below average for the months of June through August.
• Heat in Arizona, September 18, 20231 death · 1 eventHot temperatures around 8 degrees above normal caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. One heat-related fatality was reported by the Pima County Medical Examiner in the Tumacacori-Carmen area.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 20 to 24, 2023$25,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 14 miles southwest of Mack near the Colorado / Utah border.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 21 to 30, 2023$400,000 · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning in the Dolores Ranger District, northwest of the McPhee Reservoir.
• Heat in Oklahoma, September 23, 202318 eventsHeat and humidity combined to yield 105 110-degree heat indices across portions central and southern Oklahoma during the afternoon/evening of the 23rd.
• Heat in Texas, September 23 to 24, 202321 injured · 38 eventsA high pressure ridge aloft and a surface front just north of the region combined to provide a couple of days of stifling heat near the end of September.
• Heat in Arizona, September 27, 20232 deaths · 1 eventHot temperatures 10 to 12 degrees above normal caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. The Pima County Medical Examiner determined heat to be the primary cause of death for two individuals found in the desert on the Tohono O'odham Nation.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 29 to 30, 2023$250,000 · 1 eventA wildfire began from unknown causes 18 miles northwest of Craig.
• Heat in Arizona, September 29, 20231 death · 1 eventHot temperatures around 8 degrees above normal caused the Moderate Heat Risk category to be reached. One heat-related fatality was reported by the Pima County Medical Examiner in the Tucson.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 31, 202335 eventsTo start the month of October most of the region was in Extreme or D3 drought with other locations in Severe or D2. By the end of the month drought was mostly in the D1 to D2 range.
• Drought in Mississippi, October 1 to 31, 2023$14 million · 47 eventsThe combined effects of persistent above-normal temperatures and minimal precipitation starting in early July 2023 resulted in mounting drought impacts across much of the state of Mississippi.
• Drought in Iowa, October 1 to 31, 2023$66 million · 8 eventsPrecipitation was between 175 percent and 300 percent of normal across northwest Iowa during October.
• Drought in Minnesota, October 1 to 31, 2023$48 million · 8 eventsPrecipitation was between 175 percent and 300 percent of normal across southwest Minnesota during October.
• Drought in South Dakota, October 1 to 31, 2023$43 million · 8 eventsPrecipitation was between 150 percent and 175 percent of normal across southeast South Dakota during October.
• Drought in Missouri, October 1 to 31, 2023$13 million · 15 eventsSome locations saw improvement through the month but areas of the Extreme (D3) Drought saw expansion through the end of September. Drought conditions did contract across portions the Missouri Ozarks generally along and south of I-44.
• Drought in Nebraska, October 1 to 31, 2023$6.7 million · 2 eventsPrecipitation was between 175 percent and 200 percent of normal across northeast Nebraska during October.
• Drought in Arkansas, October 1 to 31, 2023$2.0 million · 2 eventsThe combined effects of persistent above-normal temperatures and minimal precipitation starting in early July 2023 resulted in mounting drought impacts across portions of far southeast Arkansas.
• Drought in Iowa, October 1 to 31, 202345 eventsDrought maintained its presence across central Iowa during October despite some spotty rainfall. The longer term dryness allowed any rain to soak in quickly with little response to area streams or rivers.
• Drought in Louisiana, October 1 to 31, 202336 eventsThe overall weather pattern over the previous few months had been unusually dry with the entire region starting October in D3 or D4 drought. October is typically one of the drier months of the local area and this year was no different.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 31, 202324 eventsMuch of South Central Texas received above normal rainfall in October, and there was improvement in the drought. The most improvement was in Bastrop, Fayette, Lee, and Williamson Counties all of which went from Exceptional (D4) category to Severe (D2).
• Drought in Oklahoma, October 1 to 17, 202323 eventsDespite heavy rainfall across the southern half of Oklahoma on the 4th, widespread severe (or worse) drought persisted across the aforementioned areas through the mid-month time frame.
• Drought in Kansas, October 1 to 31, 202323 eventsMuch of South Central and Southeast Kansas improved significantly during the month of October. However, there still remain large areas of the region that remain in severe drought (D2) extreme drought (D3).
• Drought in Nebraska, October 1 to 31, 202320 eventsDuring October 2023, at least parts of 20 of the 24 South Central Nebraska counties spent at least the majority of the month assigned at least Severe Drought (D2) by the U.S.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 31, 2023$2.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning in the Gunnison National Forest, 11 miles southwest of Crested Butte, Colorado.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 31, 2023$1.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning approximately three miles into the South San Juan Wilderness, 13 miles northeast of Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 7, 2023$400,000 · 1 eventA wildfire began from lightning in the Dolores Ranger District, northwest of the McPhee Reservoir.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 5, 2023$250,000 · 1 eventA wildfire began from unknown causes 18 miles northwest of Craig.
• Drought in New Mexico, October 1 to 31, 202336 eventsA very dry and warm October after a record dry monsoon season allowed drought conditions to persist across New Mexico. Generally, drought conditions remained steady.
• Drought in New Mexico, October 1 to 31, 202319 eventsOctober continued the run of below normal rainfall for southwest New Mexico which kept Severe(D2) to Exceptional(D4) drought conditions going through the month.

Every billion-dollar disasterEvery storm of 2023Tornadoes in 2023

NOAA NCEI, U.S. Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters (2025), https://doi.org/10.25921/stkw-7w73, and the Storm Events Database for the episodes.