Southwest/Southern Plains Drought

Losses, 2024 dollars

$3.8 billion

Losses at the time

$3.0 billion

Deaths

0

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.

• Drought in Missouri, June 1 to 30, 201827 eventsStarting at the very end of May and going into June the US Drought Monitor at the University of Nebraska declared portions of Missouri in a D2 or worse drought.
• Drought in Oklahoma, June 1 to 30, 201826 eventsWith abundant rainfall, drought conditions improved across western and northern Oklahoma. Exceptional drought was eliminated and extreme drought substantially reduced. By the end of the month, most of western Oklahoma remained in moderate to severe drought.
• Drought in Texas, June 1 to 30, 201824 eventsDrought levels remained at D2 (Severe) drought conditions or greater for most of the region. However, there was some spotty improvement over the Rolling Plains.
• Drought in Texas, June 1 to 30, 201816 eventsAbove normal temperatures and dry conditions continued into June as an upper level ridge of high pressure persisted across South Texas for the first half of the month.
• Drought in Kansas, June 1 to 30, 201816 eventsSevere to extreme drought conditions across portions of central and south central Kansas during the month of June, 2018. But welcome rainfall during the middle and towards the end of the month, actually helped with drought conditions across portions of central Kansas.
• Drought in Texas, June 1 to 30, 201815 eventsMost of the Hill Country and Rio Grande Plains region received less than 25% of normal precipitation during the month of June.
• Drought in Texas, June 1 to 30, 20185 eventsExtreme drought was reduced in western north Texas while moderate drought expanded eastward by about a county. Severe drought remained roughly the same.
• Drought in Oklahoma, June 1 to 30, 20184 eventsAlthough rainfall across east central Oklahoma was above average during June 2018, much of northeastern Oklahoma and southeastern Oklahoma received below average monthly rainfall.
• Drought in Kansas, June 1 to 30, 20182 eventsStarting at the very end of May and going into June the US Drought Monitor at the University of Nebraska declared portions of eastern Kansas in a D2 or worse drought.
• Drought in New Mexico, June 1 to 30, 201840 eventsWidespread severe to extreme drought conditions at the end of May 2018 continued through June 2018. Severe drought conditions held steady at nearly 86 percent of the state, of which nearly 60 percent was deemed extreme drought or worse.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 1 to 21, 2018$50,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire southwest of Norwood in a remote area on Bureau of Land Management land near Disappointment Valley.
• Drought in New Mexico, June 1 to 30, 201812 eventsMost locations across southern New Mexico received above average precipitation which helped to lessen drought conditions for a small portion of the area while most locations saw little to no change.
• Drought in Colorado, June 1 to 30, 201811 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of western Colorado during the month of June. As a result, drought conditions in southwest Colorado either persisted or worsened.
• Drought in Arizona, June 1 to 30, 201811 eventsExtreme drought (D3 category), which began in January, changed little in areal extent during June across sections of southeast Arizona. Expansion of extreme drought farther southeast was inhibited by a significant precipitation event resulting from the remnants of Hurricane Bud.
• Drought in Utah, June 1 to 30, 20185 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of eastern Utah during the month of June. As a result, drought conditions in eastern Utah either persisted or worsened.
• Wildfire in California, June 2 to 8, 20185 injured · 1 eventA brush fire broke out in the Aliso Viejo Canyon Park around 2pm on 6/2/2018. The fire scorched approximately 200 acres and forced evacuations of thousands of residents in the Aliso Viejo and Laguna Beach. No structures were damaged.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, June 3 to 5, 20182 deaths · 5 eventsExcessive heat warning conditions were observed across central and southern Arizona with 2 direct fatalities reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Heat in California, June 3 to 5, 20181 death · 2 eventsHigh pressure aloft brought in dry and hot conditions to the deserts from June 3rd through 5th. Extreme heat was observed in the Coachella Valley and San Diego County Deserts, and one person died from a heat-related illness.
• Heat in Arizona, June 3 to 4, 20181 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced in parts of southeast Arizona on June 3rd and 4th with temperatures of 107 and 104 degrees recorded at Sells. One heat-related fatality occurred east of Sells.
• Excessive Heat in California, June 3 to 5, 20186 eventsA heatwave brought excessive heat warning conditions to parts of southern California.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, June 4, 20184 deaths · 1 eventTemperatures reached Excessive Heat Warning levels in Las Vegas. Four people died of heat related causes during and shortly after the event.
• Heat in Texas, June 4, 20181 death · 1 eventA 9-month-old girl died after being left unattended inside a truck for an extensive period of time.
• Drought in Texas, June 5 to 25, 20187 eventsPersistent lack of rainfall, combined with record to near record heat in May and frequently breezy conditions, led to severe drought conditions that began in Willacy and northern Cameron County on the 5th but would spread to all of Cameron, much of Kenedy, and portions of Brooks…
• Drought in South Dakota, June 5 to 30, 20187 eventsRapid drying of the topsoil due to hot temperatures in May along lack of rainfall resulted in severe drought conditions developing in the James Valley in the first week of June. In fact this area received a few dust storms when strong winds moved into the region.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, June 8 to 14, 20189 deaths · 16 eventsA heatwave due to a strong upper ridge formed across the region, with excessive heat warning conditions developing by the end of the period. Nine fatalities due to the heat (5 direct, 4 indirect), were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Heat in California, June 11 to 13, 20182 eventsHigh pressure aloft brought dry conditions and extreme temperatures to the Coachella Valley and San Diego County Deserts. Temperatures reached 112 in Palm Springs and 113 in Ocotillo Wells on June 13.
• Drought in Iowa, June 12 to 30, 20184 eventsLonger term dry conditions were made worse once again by short term acute dryness in portions of south central and southeast Iowa.
• Drought in Texas, June 12 to 25, 20182 eventsPersistent lack of rainfall, combined with record to near record heat in May and frequently breezy conditions, led to severe drought conditions that would develop in eastern Hidalgo County between June 12th and 19th .
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, June 12 to 13, 20182 deaths · 5 eventsVery hot temperatures were experienced in parts of southeast Arizona on June 13th with several new record highs established. Two heat-related fatalities occurred--one in western Pima County and another in northwest Santa Cruz County.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, June 12 to 13, 20185 deaths · 2 eventsTemperatures reached Excessive Heat Warning levels on the 12th and 13th. Five people died - four in Las Vegas and one in northeast Clark County - of heat related causes from the 13th through the 14th.
• Excessive Heat in California, June 12 to 13, 20181 injured · 1 eventTemperatures reached Excessive Heat Warning levels on the 12th and 13th. One hiker suffering from dehydration and heat exposure was rescued from Death Valley National Park on the 15th.
• Wildfire in Utah, June 12, 2018$1.5 million · 1 eventVery dry vegetation was ignited in an urban-wildland interface which resulted in significant damage to personal property.
• Excessive Heat in Missouri, June 15 to 19, 201845 injured · 4 eventsA dangerous combination of heat and humidity overspread the region beginning on June 15th and persisted through June 19th. There were 45 heat related illnesses reported in St. Louis County & the City of St. Louis during this event.
• Heat in Arkansas, June 15 to 17, 20184 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, June 15 to 19, 20183 eventsA dangerous combination of heat and humidity overspread the region beginning on June 15th and persisted through June 19th. There were 45 heat related illnesses reported in St. Louis County & the City of St. Louis during this event.
• Heat in Wisconsin, June 16 to 17, 201820 eventsHot and humid conditions led to heat index values around 100 degrees for 1 or 2 days over much of southern WI.
• Heat in Kentucky, June 16 to 18, 201822 eventsAfternoon heat indices peaked between 100 and 105 degrees on three consecutive days from the 16th to the 18th. Actual air temperatures reached the lower to mid 90's. When these temperatures were combined with dew points in the mid 70's, the heat index surpassed the century mark.
• Heat in Illinois, June 16 to 18, 201819 eventsAfternoon heat indices peaked between 100 and 105 degrees on three consecutive days from the 16th to the 18th. Actual air temperatures reached the mid 90's. When these temperatures were combined with dew points in the mid 70's, the heat index surpassed the century mark.
• Heat in Indiana, June 16 to 18, 20186 eventsAfternoon heat indices peaked between 100 and 105 degrees on three consecutive days from the 16th to the 18th. Actual air temperatures reached the lower to mid 90's. When these temperatures were combined with dew points in the mid 70's, the heat index surpassed the century mark.
• Heat and Damaging Winds in New York, June 18, 20181 injured · $1,000 · 50 kt wind · 51 eventsA hot and humid airmass was in place across the region with temperatures in the 90s and dew points in the 60s and 70s. This resulted in heat index values reaching 100 to 110 degrees during the afternoon hours in valley areas.
• Heat and Damaging Winds in Vermont, June 18, 201850 kt wind · 10 eventsA hot and humid air mass was in place across the region with temperatures in the 90s and dew points in the 60s and 70s. This resulted in heat index values reaching 100 to 110 degrees during the afternoon hours in valley areas.
• Heat in West Virginia, June 18, 20183 eventsHigh pressure to our south caused a west to southwest wind, resulting in humid conditions while subsidence from an upper-level ridge led to hot conditions. The combination of hot and humid conditions led to heat indices around 100 degrees.
• Heat in Maryland, June 18, 20181 death · 5 eventsHigh pressure to our south caused a west to southwest wind, resulting in humid conditions while subsidence from an upper-level ridge led to hot conditions. The combination of hot and humid conditions led to heat indices around 100 to 105 degrees.
• Drought in Texas, June 19 to 30, 20182 eventsSevere drought conditions developed across some of the Central Texas counties during the second half of June 2018.
• Heat in Ohio, June 19, 2018$20,000 · 1 eventDuring a three day period of very hot temperatures, a section of I-77 buckled in Washington County on the 19th. Nearby, the Beverly cooperative observer reported highs of 92 on the 18th, 91 on the 19th and 90 on the 20th.
• Heat in California, June 21 to 22, 20181 death · 2 eventsA heatwave impacted the Coachella Valley and San Diego County deserts on June 21-22 due to high pressure aloft bringing in dry and hot conditions to those areas.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, June 21 to 23, 20182 deaths · 1 eventTemperatures reached Excessive Heat Warning levels in Las Vegas on the 21st through 23rd. Two people died of heat related causes on the 21st.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, June 21 to 23, 20183 deaths · 17 eventsA heatwave developed across the region, resulting in excessive heat warning conditions across parts of central and southern Arizona, with 3 direct fatalities due to the heat reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Excessive Heat in California, June 21 to 23, 20185 eventsA heatwave developed across parts of southern California, resulting in excessive heat warning conditions.
• Heat in Arizona, June 22 to 23, 20182 deaths · 6 eventsHot temperatures were experienced in parts of southeast Arizona on June 22nd and 23rd. Two heat-related fatalities occurred--one on the Tohono O'odham Nation and another in western Santa Cruz County.
• Heat in California, June 22 to 24, 20184 eventsA large high pressure ridge strengthened off the California coast on June 22 and slowly built inland through June 24 providing the San Joaquin Valley with it's first prolonged period of triple digit heat in 2018.
• Heat in California, June 22 to 24, 20184 eventsThere was widespread unseasonable heat across the Central Valley over a period of 3 days, with triple digit high temperatures.
• Wildfire in California, June 23 to 30, 20181 injured · 1 eventHot and Dry Conditions Northern California Wildfires, June 9-21, 2018.
• Wildfire in California, June 23 to 26, 20183 injured · $100,000 · 1 eventA fire broke out at the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Reservation in the Coachella Valley on June 23rd. Seven homes were destroyed and the fire affected 30 tribal members in total. Members were displaced from their homes and lost all of their possessions.
• Wildfire in Florida, June 24 to 26, 2018$800,000 · 1 eventA wildfire developed in the Eastpoint area during the late afternoon of June 24th. It quickly spread from the woods to nearby homes as strong northerly outflow from a thunderstorm to the north moved through the area with wind gusts of 25-30 mph.
• Drought in Texas, June 26 to 30, 20184 eventsSevere drought conditions popped up across more of North and Central Texas towards the end of June as below-normal rainfall continued.
• Heat in Nevada, June 26 to 30, 20184 deaths · 1 eventFour people died in Las Vegas of heat related causes.
• Heat in Arizona, June 26, 20181 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced in parts of southeast Arizona on June 26th. One heat-related fatality occurred in Cochise County.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, June 26 to 30, 201839 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, June 26 to 28, 201824 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Tennessee, June 26 to 28, 201821 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Missouri, June 26 to 30, 20184 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat in Montana, June 26 to 28, 20181 death · 1 eventHot temperatures and sunny skies increased the temperature inside of vehicles and contributed to the heatstroke death of a child in Glendive.
• Heat in Oklahoma, June 27, 20185 injured · 1 eventThe Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) issued a heat alert for Oklahoma City Metro after receiving 5 heat related emergency calls. Maximum temperatures reached to about 96 degrees with a heat index of 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Wildfire in Utah, June 27 to 28, 20182 injured · $750,000 · 1 eventThe Fruitland Shed Fire began on June 27 in the city of Fruitland and was contained on June 28.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 27 to 30, 2018$32 million · 1 eventThe Spring Creek wildfire began on June 27 around 3:57 PM 5 miles northeast of Ft Garland, CO in Costilla County, and would eventually spread into Huerfano County as well. The fire was ignited and spread through dry fuels in dry and windy weather.
• Drought in Texas, June 28 to 30, 20185 eventsMuch above normal temperatures and much below normal rainfall contributed to severe drought conditions developing across portions of Northeast Texas including much of Wood, Franklin, Camp, Upshur, and Harrison Counties.
• Drought in Louisiana, June 28 to 30, 20183 eventsMuch above normal temperatures and much below normal rainfall contributed to severe drought conditions developing across portions of Northwest Louisiana including much of Caddo, Bossier, and Webster Parishes.
• Heat in Arkansas, June 28 to 29, 20187 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure expanded east from the Oklahoma/Texas Panhandle region into the middle Red River Valley of Southeast Oklahoma, Southwest Arkansas, and Northeast Texas during June 28th and 29th.
• Heat in Louisiana, June 28 to 29, 20183 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure expanded east from the Oklahoma/Texas Panhandle region into the middle Red River Valley of Southeast Oklahoma, Southwest Arkansas, Northeast Texas, and North Louisiana during June 28th and 29th.
• Excessive Heat in Missouri, June 28 to 30, 201830 injured · 5 eventsA dangerous combination of heat and humidity overspread the region beginning on June 28th and persisted through July 1st. There were 37 heat related illnesses reported in St. Louis County & the City of St. Louis during this event.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, June 28 to 30, 201814 eventsA dangerous combination of heat and humidity overspread the region beginning on June 28th and persisted through July 1st. There were 37 heat related illnesses reported in St. Louis County & the City of St. Louis during this event.
• Heat in Louisiana, June 29, 201810 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure expanded east from the Oklahoma/Texas Panhandle region into the middle Red River Valley of Southeast Oklahoma, Southwest Arkansas, Northeast Texas, and North Louisiana during June 29th.
• Heat in Kentucky, June 29 to 30, 201822 eventsThe heat index peaked from 100 to 109 degrees on the afternoons of the 29th and 30th. Actual high temperatures were in the lower to mid 90's. These temperatures, combined with dew points in the mid 70's, produced hazardous conditions.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Wisconsin, June 29 to 30, 201820 eventsTwo to three days of hot and humid conditions produced heat index values in the 100's. Numerous cooling centers were opened by local communities throughout southern WI. Some public swimming pools hours were extended due to the heat.
• Heat in Illinois, June 29 to 30, 201819 eventsThe heat index peaked from 100 to 109 degrees on the afternoons of the 29th and 30th. Actual high temperatures were in the lower 90's. These temperatures, combined with dew points in the upper 70's, produced hazardous conditions.
• Heat in Missouri, June 29 to 30, 201811 eventsThe heat index peaked from 100 to 109 degrees on the afternoons of the 29th and 30th. Actual high temperatures were in the lower to mid 90's. These temperatures, combined with dew points in the upper 70's, produced hazardous conditions.
• Heat in Indiana, June 29 to 30, 20186 eventsThe heat index peaked from 100 to 109 degrees on the afternoons of the 29th and 30th. Actual high temperatures were in the lower 90's. These temperatures, combined with dew points in the upper 70's, produced hazardous conditions.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, June 29 to 30, 20189 eventsVery hot and humid conditions developed across northern Illinois on June 29th and June 30th and these conditions continued into July 1st.
• Excessive Heat in Wisconsin, June 29 to 30, 201811 eventsJune ended with two days of excessive heat across western Wisconsin. Heat indices topped out between 105 and 115 on both June 29th and 30th, although the high heat indices were more widespread on the 29th.
• Excessive Heat in Iowa, June 29 to 30, 20184 eventsJune ended with two days of excessive heat across northeast Iowa. Heat indices topped out between 105 and 110 on both June 29th and 30th, although the high heat indices were more widespread on the 29th.
• Excessive Heat in Minnesota, June 29 to 30, 20184 eventsJune ended with two days of excessive heat across parts of southeast Minnesota. Heat indices topped out between 105 and 115 on both June 29th and 30th, although the high heat indices were more widespread on the 29th.
• Heat in New York, June 29, 20181 death · 1 eventHigh pressure to the south pumped hot and humid air northward across the area.
• Excessive Heat in Michigan, June 30, 201823 eventsThe month of June closed with one of the hottest days in recent memory. Highs were well into the 90s, including 99 at Alpena, and 98 at Traverse City and Gaylord.
• Heat in Michigan, June 30, 201817 eventsA prolonged heat wave impacted southeast Michigan June 30th- July 5th. |Here are the Detroit High Temperatures for that period: 94, 93, 90, 91, 93, 96.|Heat related emergency rooms visits spiked and peaked on July 1st, and remained elevated through the rest of the heat wave.
• Heat in New York, June 30, 201815 eventsA hot and humid airmass invaded eastern New York beginning on June 30th. It would be the beginning of a heat wave that would last through the Independence Day holiday, and marked the first of several days of 90 degree heat.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, June 30, 201823 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Tennessee, June 30, 201821 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat in Michigan, June 30, 20185 eventsVery hot and humid weather occurred on June 30th in southwest lower Michigan. High temperatures reached the lower to middle 90's which in conjunction with dew point values reaching the middle 70's resulted in heat indices that reached or exceeded 105 degrees at several locations.
• Wildfire in California, June 30, 20181 injured · 1 eventUnseasonable heat, low humidity, and very dry fuels created critical conditions for wildfire.
• Heat in Vermont, July 1 to 6, 20184 deaths · 16 eventsA dangerous heat wave, one of which that likely hasn't impacted the North Country in decades occurred between June 30th and July 5th. High temperatures exceeded 90 degrees for at least 5 of the six days in many locations were above 85 degrees for 7 days.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in New York, July 1 to 5, 201827 eventsA hot and humid airmass brought excessively high heat indices to eastern New York from the beginning of July through the Independence Day holiday. Temperatures soared as high as 99 degrees on July 1st, the hottest day of the stretch.
• Heat in Michigan, July 1 to 5, 201817 eventsA prolonged heat wave impacted southeast Michigan June 30th- July 5th. |Here are the Detroit High Temperatures for that period: 94, 93, 90, 91, 93, 96. |Heat related emergency rooms visits spiked and peaked on July 1st, and remained elevated through the rest of the heat wave.
• Heat and Damaging Winds in New York, July 1 to 6, 2018$2,000 · 55 kt wind · 8 eventsA dangerous heat wave, one of which that likely hasn't impacted the North Country in decades occurred between June 30th and July 5th.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Vermont, July 1 to 5, 20183 eventsA hot and humid airmass brought excessively high heat indices to southern Vermont during the beginning of July through the Independence Day holiday. Temperatures soared as high as the mid-90s on July 1st, the hottest day of the stretch.
• Excessive Heat in Missouri, July 1, 20187 injured · 2 eventsA dangerous combination of heat and humidity overspread the region beginning on June 28th and persisted through July 1st. There were 37 heat related illnesses reported in St. Louis County & the City of St. Louis during this event.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Kentucky, July 1 to 5, 201844 eventsThe prolonged period of hazardous heat and humidity that began on June 29th persisted through the first several days of July. The most dangerous heat index values occurred on July 5th, when afternoon heat indices peaked from 110 to 115 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Illinois, July 1 to 5, 201838 eventsThe prolonged period of hazardous heat and humidity that began on June 29th persisted through the first several days of July. The most dangerous heat index values occurred on July 5th, when afternoon heat indices peaked around 110 degrees.
• Drought in Missouri, July 1 to 31, 201833 eventsThe anomalously dry period that plagued the region during the summer of 2018 continued into and through July. Most areas were about 2 inches short of normal precipitation for the month of July.
• Drought in Oklahoma, July 1 to 31, 201831 eventsSevere to extreme drought persisted across southwest Oklahoma and severe drought expanded across south central Oklahoma while parts of northern Oklahoma saw some improvement in drought conditions.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 2018$25,000 · 6 eventsBelow-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures caused drought conditions to expand across the region during the month of July.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 201824 eventsAlthough rainfall was very spotty during the month of July, drought conditions remained relatively unchanged. Most areas across the South Plains, Rolling Plains, and extreme southern Texas Panhandle were in Severe (D2) Drought.
• Heat in Mississippi, July 1 to 2, 201822 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Tennessee, July 1 to 2, 201821 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Missouri, July 1 to 5, 201819 eventsThe prolonged period of hazardous heat and humidity that began on June 29th persisted through the first several days of July. The most dangerous heat index values occurred on July 5th, when afternoon heat indices peaked around 110 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, July 1 to 2, 201815 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Drought in Kansas, July 1 to 31, 201814 eventsModerate to extreme drought continued across a good portion of central, south central and southeast Kansas during the month of the July, 2018. Rainfall amounts continued to be below normal, but some bouts of rainfall kept the drought from becoming worse.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Indiana, July 1 to 5, 201812 eventsThe prolonged period of hazardous heat and humidity that began on June 29th persisted through the first several days of July. The most dangerous heat index values occurred on July 5th, when afternoon heat indices peaked around 110 degrees.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 201811 eventsJuly was a mixed bag as far as the drought was concerned. Parts of South Central Texas had enough rain to improve a category while several others received little rain and the drought worsened.
• Drought in Oklahoma, July 1 to 31, 201810 eventsA typical summertime weather pattern affected eastern Oklahoma during July 2018, with convective patterns resulting in localized rainfall that exceeded climatological monthly averages in some areas while below average amounts were seen in other areas.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 20188 eventsSevere to extreme drought expanded across western north Texas.
• Drought in Kansas, July 1 to 31, 20187 eventsThe anomalously dry period that plagued the region during the summer of 2018 continued into and through July. Most areas were about 2 inches short of normal precipitation for the month of July.
• Drought in South Dakota, July 1 to 10, 20187 eventsThe severe drought which began in early June in the James Valley ended in early July as the result of some beneficial rainfall. Major crop damage to mainly soybeans had already occurred.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 10, 20184 eventsJuly brought beneficial rain to Bandera, Kendall, Comal, and Frio Counties ending Severe (D2) drought. These counties received near normal to 200% of normal rainfall for the month.
• Drought in Iowa, July 1 to 31, 20184 eventsAcute short term dryness continued near the Missouri border into southeast Iowa in July. This led to the expansion of extreme drought conditions into areas that have been relatively dry for over three years.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 20184 eventsAreas in and around the DFW Metroplex which did not deteriorate to D3/Extreme drought conditions still remained in Severe/D2 drought for all of July.
• Drought in Louisiana, July 1 to 31, 20183 eventsSevere drought conditions continued throughout July across much of Caddo, Bossier, and Webster Parishes, in response to a prolonged period of above normal temperatures and much below rainfall since May.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 20183 eventsSevere drought conditions that developed during late June across much of Franklin, Marion, and Harrison Counties in Northeast Texas continued throughout the entire month of July, as much above normal temperatures of some 2-4+ degrees and below normal rainfall was again observed.
• Excessive Heat in Wisconsin, July 1, 20183 eventsTwo to three days of hot and humid conditions produced heat index values in the 100's. Numerous cooling centers were opened by local communities throughout southern WI. Some public swimming pools hours were extended due to the heat.
• Heat in Missouri, July 1 to 2, 20182 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 20182 eventsSevere to extreme drought persisted over the western Brush Country counties of La Salle and Webb through the month of July.
• Excessive Heat in Illinois, July 1, 20182 eventsVery hot and humid conditions developed across northern Illinois on June 29th and June 30th and these conditions continued into July 1st. In Livingston County, Pontiac Airport reached a high temperature of 91 with a peak heat index of 112.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 18, 20182 eventsSevere drought conditions that developed during late June across much of Camp and Upshur Counties in Northeast Texas continued through mid-July, as above normal temperatures of some 1-2+ degrees and below normal rainfall was again observed.
• Drought in New Mexico, July 1 to 31, 201840 eventsWidespread severe to extreme drought conditions at the end of June 2018 improved only slightly through July 2018 despite greater coverage of showers and thunderstorms with locally heavy rainfall.
• Drought in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 201818 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of western Colorado during the month of July. As a result, drought conditions in western Colorado either persisted or worsened.
• Drought in New Mexico, July 1 to 31, 201813 eventsMuch of southern New Mexico saw drought categories improve from Severe(D2) and Extreme(D3) to Moderate(D1) in July due to good rainfall amounts in late June.
• Drought in Arizona, July 1 to 31, 201811 eventsExtreme drought (D3 category), which began in January, began to decrease in areal coverage across parts of southeast Arizona toward the end of July.
• Drought in Utah, July 1 to 31, 20187 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of eastern Utah during the month of July. As a result, drought conditions in eastern Utah either persisted or worsened.
• Heat in Nevada, July 1 to 5, 20189 deaths · 2 eventsNine people died in Clark County of heat related causes.
• Excessive Heat in Pennsylvania, July 1 to 5, 20182 deaths · 12 eventsTemperatures in the middle to upper 90s and dew points in the upper 60s to lower 70s led to excessive heat across portions of southeastern Pennsylvania. Heat indices reached 110 degrees at the Doylestown ASOS at 2 pm on July 3rd.
• Excessive Heat in New Jersey, July 1 to 3, 201810 eventsTemperatures in the middle to upper 90s and dew points in the upper 60s to lower 70s led to excessive heat across northern and western New Jersey. Heat indices reached 111 degrees at the Somerset ASOS at 3 pm on July 3rd.
• Excessive Heat in Massachusetts, July 1, 20183 eventsAn area of high pressure over the Eastern USA brought hot and very humid air to Southern New England on July 1st. Heat Index values of 105 to 109 occurred in parts of Eastern and Northwestern Massachusetts. Heat Index values in much of the state reached 95 to 104.
• Heat in West Virginia, July 1, 20183 eventsAn upper-level high along with surface high over the western Atlantic led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Maryland, July 1, 20182 eventsAn upper-level high along with surface high over the western Atlantic led to hot and humid conditions.
• Excessive Heat in Connecticut, July 1 to 5, 20182 eventsA hot and humid airmass brought excessively high heat indices to northwestern Connecticut from the beginning of July through the Independence Day holiday. Temperatures soared as high as 99 degrees on July 1st, the hottest day of the stretch.
• Excessive Heat in Massachusetts, July 1 to 4, 20182 eventsA hot and humid airmass brought excessively high heat indices to western Massachusetts during the beginning of July. Temperatures soared as high as the mid to upper 90s on July 1st, the hottest day of the stretch.
• Wildfire in California, July 1 to 17, 20181 injured · 1 eventRed Flag conditions exacerbated a fire sparked in Yolo County at the end of June that moved into Napa County in the beginning of July.
• Excessive Heat in Connecticut, July 1, 20182 eventsA Bermuda high pumped in heat and high humidity across the area.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 1 to 31, 2018$25 million · 1 eventThe Dollar Ridge Fire in northern Utah began on July 1 and burned for two months before being effectively contained. Note that this episode continued into August.
• Heat in Arizona, July 1 to 4, 20184 deaths · 4 eventsHigh pressure over the region led to dangerous heat during the first few days of the month. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, there were four fatalities (1 direct and 3 indirect) that occurred during this time.
• Heat in Maryland, July 2, 201817 eventsAn upper-level high along with surface high over the western Atlantic led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Virginia, July 2, 201816 eventsAn upper-level high along with surface high over the western Atlantic led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in West Virginia, July 2, 20187 eventsAn upper-level high along with surface high over the western Atlantic led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 2 to 25, 2018185 injured · 1 eventThe Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) issued a heat alert for Oklahoma City Metro 2nd which continued through the 25th. Over this time period EMSA received 185 heat related calls. Maximum temperatures ranged from about 90 degrees to about 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Heat in Maine, July 2 to 5, 201815 eventsA heat wave with unusually persistent hot and humid conditions occurred across the region from July 2nd through the 5th. Temperatures in the upper 80s and 90s along with dewpoints in the 70s produced heat index readings generally ranging through the 90s.
• Excessive Heat in Pennsylvania, July 2 to 3, 20187 eventsThe first significant heat wave of the 2018 summer season saw several days with temperatures well into the 90s over much of central Pennsylvania, and heat indices in excess of 100 degrees in the Lower Susquehanna Valley.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Maryland, July 3, 20189 deaths · 17 eventsAn upper-level high along with surface high over the western Atlantic led to hot and humid conditions.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Virginia, July 3, 201824 eventsAn upper-level high along with surface high over the western Atlantic led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in West Virginia, July 3, 20187 eventsAn upper-level high along with surface high over the western Atlantic led to hot and humid conditions.
• Excessive Heat in Massachusetts, July 3, 20184 eventsAn area of high pressure over the Eastern USA continued to bring hot and very humid air to Southern New England on July 3rd. Heat Index values of 105 to 109 occurred in parts of Eastern Massachusetts. Heat Index values in much of the state reached 95 to 104.
• Heat in South Dakota, July 3, 201812 eventsResiding just south of a frontal boundary, a very warm and humid air mass brought dangerous heat indices to much of southeast South Dakota.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 3 to 31, 2018$3.0 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from human causes about one mile northwest of Basalt. Difficult terrain and continued hot and dry conditions led the wildfire to persist for several months.
• Heat in Missouri, July 4 to 5, 2018106 injured · 3 eventsUnseasonably hot and humid weather settled over Missouri during the Fourth of July holiday period. Highs were in the mid 90s with heat index values between 100 and 110. As a result, at least 100 people suffered heat-related illnesses at various outdoor events.
• Heat in Tennessee, July 4 to 5, 201821 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Wisconsin, July 4, 201820 eventsA hot and humid airmass settled over southern WI on the 4th of July. Maximum heat index values were around 100 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, July 4 to 5, 201818 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Mississippi, July 4 to 5, 20189 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Missouri, July 4 to 5, 20182 eventsUpper level high pressure built over the Mid-South. High temperatures combined with high humidity to create dangerous conditions across much of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Iowa, July 4, 20182 eventsJust south of an outflow from morning convection, sunshine returned temperatures to around 90 degrees, with stifling dew point readings near 80 degrees.
• Heat in Nebraska, July 4, 20182 eventsJust south of an outflow from morning convection, sunshine returned temperatures to around 90 degrees, with stifling dew point near 80 degrees.
• Heat in South Dakota, July 4, 20182 eventsJust south of an outflow from morning convection, sunshine returned temperatures to around 90 degrees, with stifling dew point readings in the upper 70's.
• Drought in Louisiana, July 5 to 31, 20184 eventsSevere drought conditions developed during the first week of July across much of Desoto, Red River, Bienville, and Claiborne Parishes in Northwest Louisiana, in response to a prolonged period of above normal temperatures and much below rainfall since May.
• Drought in Arkansas, July 5 to 31, 20182 eventsSevere drought conditions developed by the first week of July across Lafayette and Columbia Counties in Southwest Arkansas, in response to a prolonged period of above normal temperatures (3-4+ degrees) throughout June, and below normal rainfall since early May.
• Wildfire in California, July 5 to 22, 20181 death · 1 eventThe Klamathon Wildfire started on 07/05/18 at 0031 PDT by someone burning debris. As of the last report at 22/0330 PST, the fire covered 38008 acres and was 100 percent contained. 33.5 million dollars had been expended on firefighting efforts.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 5 to 9, 201820 deaths · 32 eventsA heatwave, resulting from strong high pressure over the region, led to excessive heat warning conditions across much of south-central and southwest Arizona. Twenty fatalities (13 direct and 7 indirect) were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 5 to 7, 20182 deaths · 1 injured · 7 eventsVery hot temperatures occurred in Tucson and the deserts west of Tucson on July 5th. The record high temperature was tied at the Tucson International Airport.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 5 to 8, 201811 eventsA heatwave brought excessive heat warning conditions to portions of southern California.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, July 6 to 10, 20189 deaths · 1 eventExcessive Heat Warning criteria were reached in Las Vegas on July 6th. Nine people died in Las Vegas of heat related causes during and in the immediate aftermath of the excessive heat.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 6 to 7, 20181 death · 50 injured · 4 eventsStrong broad upper level high pressure centered over Nevada and unusual weak offshore flow in July brought extreme hot temperatures and dry conditions to Southern California from July 6th through 8th.
• Wildfire in California, July 6 to 10, 20181 injured · $500,000 · 1 eventThe West Fire started on 7/06 in Alpine and quickly spread to over 400 acres in a few short hours. The cause of the fire is unknown. Extreme temperatures from high pressure aloft and low relative humidity helped to exasperate the fire.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 6 to 8, 20182 eventsA large area of high pressure built into central California from the east on July 6 and brought a hot and dry airmass to the region which persisted through July 8. This produced a period of excessive heat across the Kern County deserts.
• Heat in South Dakota, July 8, 20189 eventsA strong ridge of high pressure aloft brought a hot and very humid air mass to the region. Afternoon temperatures reached 92 to 98 degrees,with a dew point around 70. The heat index reached 100-105.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, July 8 to 13, 20182 eventsLightning strikes ignited a wildfire in grassland northeast of Worland on the evening of July 8th, mainly north of US Highway 16 and Wyoming Highway 31 in Washakie and Big Horn Counties. The fire grew rapidly on July 8th and 9thl causing the closure of Highway 31 for a time.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Illinois, July 10 to 14, 201824 eventsSeveral days of oppressive heat and humidity were experienced across parts of southern Illinois. The extreme southern tip of the state was impacted the most. Around Metropolis and Cairo, heat indices peaked in the triple digits on five consecutive days.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Missouri, July 10 to 14, 201816 eventsSeveral days of oppressive heat and humidity were experienced across southeast Missouri, where heat indices peaked in the triple digits on five consecutive days.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Kentucky, July 10 to 14, 201828 eventsSeveral days of oppressive heat and humidity were experienced across parts of west Kentucky. The extreme western end of the state was impacted the most. From Paducah south and west, heat indices peaked in the triple digits on five consecutive days.
• Heat in Nevada, July 11 to 15, 20188 deaths · 2 eventsEight people died in Clark County of heat related causes.
• Heat in Mississippi, July 11 to 17, 201819 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Heat in South Dakota, July 11 to 12, 201814 eventsSignificant evapotranspiration along with very warm temperatures within a strong ridge of high pressure aloft produced dangerous heat index values from 100 to 105 over a two-day period.
• Heat in Arkansas, July 11 to 17, 201812 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Heat in Iowa, July 11 to 12, 201811 eventsSignificant evapotranspiration along with very warm temperatures within a strong ridge of high pressure aloft produced dangerous heat index values from 100 to 105 over a two-day period.
• Heat in South Dakota, July 11, 201810 eventsSignificant evapotranspiration along with very warm temperatures within a strong ridge of high pressure aloft produced dangerous heat index values from 100 to 105.
• Heat in Minnesota, July 11, 20185 eventsSignificant evapotranspiration along with very warm temperatures within a strong ridge of high pressure aloft produced dangerous heat index values from 100 to 105.
• Heat in Minnesota, July 11 to 12, 20183 eventsSignificant evapotranspiration along with very warm temperatures within a strong ridge of high pressure aloft produced dangerous heat index values from 100 to 105 over a two-day period.
• Heat in Nebraska, July 11 to 12, 20182 eventsSignificant evapotranspiration along with very warm temperatures within a strong ridge of high pressure aloft produced dangerous heat index values from 100 to 105 over a two-day period.
• Heat in Tennessee, July 12 to 17, 201816 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Heat in Alabama, July 12, 20186 eventsTemperatures reached the middle to upper 90s with dew points in the lower to middle 70s. This produced Heat Index values of around 105 degrees for a few hours on the afternoon of the 12th.
• Heat in Oregon, July 12 to 17, 20182 eventsStrong high pressure coupled with very dry air brought very hot temperatures to the area during this interval.
• Heat in California, July 12 to 17, 20182 eventsStrong high pressure coupled with very dry air brought very hot temperatures to the area during this interval.
• Heat in Alabama, July 13, 20186 eventsHeat index values reached 105 degrees in northwest Alabama during the afternoon of the 13th.
• Heat in Texas, July 13, 201821 eventsA large middle and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded south from the Midwest into much of the Ark-La-Tex during July 13th.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 13, 201817 eventsA large middle and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded south from the Midwest into much of the Ark-La-Tex during July 13th.
• Heat in Arkansas, July 13, 20189 eventsA large middle and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded south from the Midwest into much of the Ark-La-Tex during July 13th.
• Excessive Heat in Arkansas, July 13 to 16, 20187 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Heat in Missouri, July 13, 20182 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Heat in Arizona, July 13 to 18, 20189 deaths · 8 eventsHigh pressure over the region allowed for temperatures to climb to dangerous levels during the middle part of the month. Nine heat-associated fatalities (7 direct and 2 indirect) were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Wildfire in California, July 13 to 31, 20184 deaths · 18 injured · 2 eventsThe Ferguson Fire started on July 13, 2018 at 2136 PDT in the South Fork Merced River drainage, 10 miles north of Mariposa, CA in Sierra National Forest. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
• Heat in Indiana, July 14, 20186 eventsOppressive heat and humidity was experienced across southwest Indiana, where heat indices peaked around 105 degrees. Actual air temperatures reached the mid 90's. The heat and humidity built up on the back side of a high pressure center over the middle Atlantic coast.
• Heat in Missouri, July 14, 20188 injured · 2 eventsUnseasonably hot and humid weather settled over Missouri on July 14th. Highs were between 95 and 100 with heat index values between 105 and 110. As a result, at least 8 people suffered heat-related illnesses and went to St. Louis metro area hospital emergency departments.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in California, July 15 to 20, 20188 eventsHigh pressure ridging brought hot temperatures across the area, 5 to 10 degrees above normal. Some locations had high temperatures reaching 105-110, with temperatures remaining in the mid to upper 70s overnight. Heat Warnings and Advisories were issued.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 15 to 16, 20189 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure expanded east from the Four Corners Region into Southeast Oklahoma, Northeast Texas, Southwest Arkansas, and North Louisiana during July 15th and 16th.
• Heat in Arkansas, July 15, 20186 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure expanded east from the Four Corners Region into Southeast Oklahoma, Northeast Texas, Southwest Arkansas, and North Louisiana during July 15th.
• Heat in Nevada, July 16 to 19, 20186 deaths · 1 eventSix people died in Las Vegas of heat related causes.
• Heat in Oregon, July 16 to 18, 20182 deaths · 2 eventsHigh pressure over the region led to a stretch of hot day July 12 through July 17th. Hot temperatures led people to cool off in local rivers. There were two drownings recorded on July 16 and July 18.
• Heat in Maryland, July 16, 20185 deaths · 3 eventsUpper-level high pressure nearby and surface high pressure to our south and east caused hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 16, 20182 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure expanded east from the Four Corners Region into Southeast Oklahoma, Northeast Texas, Southwest Arkansas, and North Louisiana during July 16th.
• Heat in Maryland, July 17, 20184 deaths · 3 eventsA southerly flow caused hot and humid conditions.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 17 to 31, 20181 death · 1 eventThe Substation Fire started on private land southeast of The Dalles, Oregon, on Tuesday, July 17, 2018 and grew quickly. Driven by strong winds, the fire moved more than 18 miles in the first burning period and crossed multiple agency jurisdictions.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 17, 20181 death · 1 eventA fire broke out on the Bear Creek Greenway near Penninger Road and Pine Street in Central Point late in the afternoon of 07/17/18. The point of origin was near a transient camp. The fire spread quickly to the south and east through fields surrounded by structures.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 17 to 19, 2018$250,000 · 1 eventThe Upriver Beacon Wildfire began from an unknown cause on July 17th near Spokane.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Mississippi, July 19 to 20, 201829 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Tennessee, July 19 to 20, 201822 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, July 19 to 20, 201820 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 19 to 22, 201814 eventsA large mid and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded from the Southern Rockies across all of the Ark-La-Tex during July 19th-22nd.
• Heat in Texas, July 19 to 23, 201812 eventsA large mid and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded from the Southern Rockies across all of the Ark-La-Tex during July 19th-23rd.
• Heat in Arkansas, July 19 to 21, 20189 eventsA large mid and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded from the Southern Rockies across all of the Ark-La-Tex during July 19th-21st.
• Heat in Texas, July 19 to 22, 20187 eventsA large mid and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded from the Southern Rockies across all of the Ark-La-Tex during July 19th-22nd.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 19 to 23, 20183 eventsA large mid and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded from the Southern Rockies across all of the Ark-La-Tex during July 19th-23rd.
• Heat in Texas, July 19 to 21, 20182 eventsA large mid and upper level ridge of high pressure expanded from the Southern Rockies across all of the Ark-La-Tex during July 19th-21st.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, July 19 to 21, 201820 injured · 24 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure over the south central United States resulted in a period of unseasonably hot weather over the area in late July. Temperatures on the 19th and 20th climbed to 100 to 105 degrees across much of eastern Oklahoma.
• Excessive Heat in Arkansas, July 19 to 20, 20183 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure over the south central United States resulted in a period of unseasonably hot weather over the area in late July. Temperatures on the 19th and 20th climbed to near 105 degrees across west central Arkansas.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 19 to 23, 201823 eventsStrong high pressure settled over South Central Texas, and temperatures soared to record levels. The heat wave started on the 19th in Burnet, Frio, Llano, Medina, Travis, and Williamson Counties with high temperatures reaching 105 and higher.
• Heat in Texas, July 19, 20181 death · 1 eventA 3-year-old boy died after being left unattended for at least four hours in a hot vehicle.
• Heat in Arizona, July 20, 20184 deaths · 3 eventsAn area of high pressure centered over the Texas Panhandle allowed for temperatures to climb to dangerous levels on the 20th. Four heat-associated fatalities (one direct and three indirect) were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Heat in Nevada, July 20 to 23, 20185 deaths · 1 eventFive people died in Las Vegas of heat related causes.
• Heat in Kentucky, July 20, 201812 eventsAfternoon heat indices peaked around 105 degrees across parts of western Kentucky, mainly from the Kentucky Lake region westward. Southwest winds ahead of a cold front brought hot and humid air.
• Heat in Illinois, July 20, 201811 eventsAfternoon heat indices peaked from 105 to 110 degrees across parts of southern Illinois, mainly southeast of a line from Carbondale to Mount Carmel. Southwest winds ahead of a cold front brought hot and humid air.
• Heat in Missouri, July 20, 20187 eventsAfternoon heat indices peaked around 105 degrees across parts of southeast Missouri, mainly along and southeast of a line from Cape Girardeau to Poplar Bluff. Southwest winds ahead of a cold front brought hot and humid air.
• Heat in Missouri, July 20, 20182 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of July 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 22 to 31, 201840 deaths · 6 eventsStrong high pressure over the Desert Southwest allowed for temperatures to climb into record territory across the Phoenix area, resulting in deadly excessive heat conditions. Phoenix Sky Harbor airport recorded temperatures getting as high as 116 degrees during this period.
• Wildfire in Texas, July 22, 2018$40,000 · 1 eventGrass fires burned approximately 35 acres in Clay county on the 22nd. One mobile home was lost and other structures were threatened.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 22 to 27, 201825 deaths · 39 eventsStrong high pressure building into the region resulted in excessive heat warning conditions across much of south-central and southwest Arizona. The deadly heatwave resulted in 25 fatalities (23 direct and 2 indirect) according to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 23 to 25, 20181 death · 2 injured · 2 eventsVery strong high pressure aloft developed across the lower deserts of Arizona during a 3 day period ending on Wednesday July 25th; the exceedingly warm upper atmospheric conditions resulted in very hot temperatures over the lower deserts including the greater Phoenix…
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 23 to 25, 20181 death · 12 injured · 17 eventsVery hot temperatures occurred in the valleys of southeast Arizona from July 23rd through July 25th. Several record high temperatures were observed. While no fatalities occurred, several reports of heat-related illnesses were noted.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 23 to 25, 201811 eventsA heatwave brought excessive heat warning conditions to much of southeast California.
• Wildfire in California, July 23 to 26, 20183 injured · $500,000 · 1 eventThe Martinez Fire broke out on the Torres Martinez Reservation in Mecca around 1400 PST on July 23rd. Seven homes were destroyed and 30 tribal members were displaced. Three firefighters suffered minor injuries.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, July 23 to 31, 20189 deaths · 22 injured · $1.6 billion · 134 kt wind · 3 eventsLarge wildfires developed across Northern California at the end of July during a period of high temperatures, low humidity and unusually dry fuels. A powerful fire whirl developed with the Carr Fire, creating significant wind damage to western Redding and rapid fire growth.
• Drought in Texas, July 24 to 31, 20189 eventsModerate/D1 drought conditions deteriorated to severe/D2 during the last week of July as rainfall totals remained below normal for the month.
• Drought in Iowa, July 24 to 31, 20183 eventsDryness expanded near the Missouri border during July with severe drought conditions developing in far southern Iowa.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, July 24 to 28, 201817 deaths · 1 eventExcessive Heat Warning criteria were reached in Las Vegas from July 24 through 28. Seventeen people died in Las Vegas of heat related causes during and in the immediate aftermath of the excessive heat.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in California, July 24 to 28, 20188 eventsHigh pressure ridging brought hot temperatures across the area, 8 to 15 degrees above normal. Some locations had high temperatures reaching 109-113, with temperatures remaining in the mid to upper 70s overnight, locally in the low 80s in the foothills.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in California, July 24 to 28, 20186 eventsA large area of high pressure strengthened over the region on July 17 resulting a long stretch of days with 100 degree and warmer days across the San Joaquin Valley and the Kern County Deserts. The high strengthened over California on July 24.
• Wildfire in California, July 25 to 31, 2018$200,000 · 1 eventThe Cranston Fire started around 1100 PST on 7/25 in the Riverside County Mountains near the town of Idyllwild. Nearby communities in Idyllwild, Mountain Center and Fern Valley were evacuated.
• Drought in Texas, July 26 to 31, 20183 eventsSevere drought conditions developed during the final week of July across much of Red River, Titus, and Morris Counties in Northeast Texas, as much above normal temperatures of some 2-4+ degrees and below normal rainfall was observed.
• Drought in Arkansas, July 26 to 31, 20183 eventsSevere drought conditions developed by the third week of July across much of Sevier, Howard, and Hempstead Counties in Southwest Arkansas, in response to a prolonged period of above normal temperatures (3-4 degrees) throughout June, and below normal rainfall since mid June.
• Drought in Arkansas, July 26 to 31, 20182 eventsSevere drought conditions developed by the third week of July across much of Miller and Union Counties in extreme Southern Arkansas, in response to a prolonged period of above normal temperatures (3-4 degrees) throughout June, and below normal rainfall since the third week of…
• Wildfire in Washington, July 27 to 31, 2018$1.8 million · 1 eventThe Chelan Hills Wildfire began on July 27 from an unknown cause. The fire burned 1842 acres of grass and brush on slopes above the Columbia River near the town of Orondo. Four homes and several orchards were damaged and several outbuildings were destroyed.
• Heat in Arizona, July 28 to 31, 201815 deaths · 11 eventsAn area of high pressure centered over the Desert Southwest led to dangerous heat across the region. A total of 15 fatalities (9 direct and 6 indirect) were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Drought in Texas, July 29 to 31, 20185 eventsSome of the Central Texas counties were limited to moderate drought (D1) until the last few days of the month, when conditions finally deteriorated to severe drought (D2).
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 2018$48,000 · 28 eventsSevere or worse drought conditions persisted across most of North and Central Texas during the month of August. However, conditions were slightly better during the second half of the month compared to the first due to rainfall which occurred during he second week of August.
• Drought in Missouri, August 1 to 31, 201835 eventsPrecipitation picked up during August, especially in some of the hardest hit drought areas, but in a lot of cases the damage had already been done, and while the rains did pick back up the ground soil was so parched that it made hardly a dent in the drought across northern…
• Drought in Oklahoma, August 1 to 31, 201826 eventsSevere to extreme drought persisted across southwest Oklahoma and parts of north central Oklahoma, while south central Oklahoma saw a little bit of improvement.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 13, 2018$16,000 · 16 eventsSevere drought conditions across the Red River counties and areas along and east of the I-35 corridor improved to moderate drought status by the middle of August following beneficial rainfall which fell during the second week of the month.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 201824 eventsDrought conditions eased for the first time in several months for portions of the South Plains and extreme southern Texas Panhandle.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 201819 eventsA large part of South Central Texas received 50% or less of normal rain in August.
• Drought in Kansas, August 1 to 31, 201812 eventsDrought conditions improved dramatically across the region during the month of August 2018. A few bouts of heavy rainfall occurred during the month, which led to vast improvements in drought conditions across the region.
• Drought in Oklahoma, August 1 to 31, 201810 eventsAugust 2018 was unusually wet across much of eastern Oklahoma due to an active weather pattern that brought several rounds of heavy rainfall to the area during the month.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 20188 eventsSevere to extreme drought persisted over western north Texas.
• Drought in Kansas, August 1 to 31, 20187 eventsPrecipitation picked up during August, especially in some of the hardest hit drought areas, but in a lot of cases the damage had already been done, and while the rains did pick back up the ground soil was so parched that it made hardly a dent in the drought across northeast…
• Drought in Iowa, August 1 to 31, 20187 eventsBelow normal rainfall continued to allow conditions to deteriorate across portions of south central into southeast Iowa during the month with areas of extreme drought. This was the culmination of both short term dryness and longer term (multi-year) precipitation deficits.
• Drought in Louisiana, August 1 to 31, 20187 eventsExtreme (D3) and severe (D2) drought conditions continued throughout the entire month of August across much of Caddo, Desoto, Bossier, Webster, Bienville, Claiborne, and Western Union Parishes in North Louisiana, as continued very hot and dry conditions persisted over these…
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 20186 eventsExtreme (D3) and severe (D2) drought conditions continued across Franklin, Titus, Camp, Morris, Marion, and Harrison Counties in Northeast Texas throughout the entire month of August, with continued below normal rainfall which ranged from three-quarters of an inch to around two…
• Drought in Arkansas, August 1 to 15, 20184 eventsSevere (D2) drought conditions continued across much of Miller, Lafayette, Columbia, and Union Counties in extreme Southern Arkansas to start the month of August, with continued hot and dry conditions persisting across these areas through the second week of the month.
• Drought in Arkansas, August 1, 20183 eventsSevere (D2) drought conditions continued into the first day of August across much of Sevier, Howard, and Hempstead Counties in Southwest Arkansas, although a couple of thunderstorm complexes that developed over much of Oklahoma spread east across the northern sections of…
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 20182 eventsA severe to extreme drought impacted Brown and Coleman Counties in West Central Texas throughout the month of August.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 15, 20182 eventsExtreme (D3) and severe (D2) drought conditions continued through the first two weeks of August across Red River and Bowie County Texas, as very little rainfall fell through the first week of the month.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 20182 eventsSevere to extreme drought persisted over the western Brush Country counties of La Salle and Webb through the month of August.
• Wildfire in Utah, August 1 to 31, 2018$25 million · 1 eventThe Dollar Ridge Fire in northern Utah began on July 1 and burned for two months before being effectively contained. Note that this episode began in July.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 2018$3.5 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from human causes 1 mile northwest of Basalt. Difficult terrain and continued hot and dry conditions led the fire to persist for several months.
• Drought in New Mexico, August 1 to 31, 201838 eventsWidespread severe to extreme drought conditions at the end of July 2018 improved only slightly through August 2018 despite greater coverage of showers and thunderstorms with locally heavy rainfall.
• Drought in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 201821 eventsWhile some areas in western Colorado received above normal precipitation, above normal temperatures continued throughout the month of August. As a result, drought conditions in western Colorado persisted.
• Drought in Utah, August 1 to 31, 20187 eventsWhile some areas in eastern Utah received above normal precipitation, above normal temperatures continued throughout the month of August. As a result, drought conditions in eastern Utah persisted.
• Drought in Arizona, August 1 to 14, 20183 eventsExtreme drought (D3 category), which began in January and peaked in late May through early July, continued to decrease in areal coverage across parts of southeast Arizona during August.
• Drought in New Mexico, August 1 to 31, 20182 eventsA near normal precipitation month in August kept northern Grant County in Severe(D2) drought conditions.
• Heat in Nevada, August 1 to 5, 201818 deaths · 1 eventEighteen people died of heat related causes in Las Vegas.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 18, 201838 injured · 2 eventsThe Ferguson Fire started on July 13, 2018 at 2136 PDT in the South Fork Merced River drainage, 10 miles north of Mariposa, CA in Sierra National Forest. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 1 to 31, 2018$82 million · 2 eventsVery dry conditions over Eastern Washington during July and August created dry fuel conditions across the region.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 1 to 31, 2018$7.7 million · 4 eventsDry conditions over north Idaho during July and August created dry fuel conditions across the region.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 20189 injured · 1 eventLarge wildfires developed across Northern California early August during a period of high temperatures, and low humidity.
• Drought in Texas, August 2 to 31, 20184 eventsSevere drought conditions developed during the first week of August across much of Camp, Upshur, Gregg, and Cass Counties in Northeast Texas, as much above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall was observed throughout July, carrying over into August.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, August 2 to 7, 201831 deaths · 39 eventsStrong high pressure over the Desert Southwest led to excessive heat warning conditions near the beginning of the month. The deadly heatwave resulted in 31 fatalities (27 direct and 4 indirect) according to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Heat in Arizona, August 2 to 3, 20181 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced in far western parts of southeast Arizona on August 2nd and 3rd with temperatures of 106 and 108 degrees at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and 109 and 108 degrees at Ajo. One heat-related fatality occurred near Ajo.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 2 to 13, 2018$2.0 million · 1 eventThe Angel Springs Wildfire began on August 2nd seven miles northeast of Davenport due to a farm machine fire. Gusty winds and low relative humidity caused the fire to spread, eventually consuming 5046 acres of crops, timber and grassland.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 5 to 6, 20181 death · 23 injured · 6 eventsVery hot temperatures occurred in the valleys of southeast Arizona from August 5th and 6th. A total of 23 rescues of hikers suffering from heat exhaustion occurred in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. One heat-related death occurred near Sells.
• Heat in Maryland, August 6, 20182 deaths · 1 eventRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Maine, August 6 to 7, 20189 eventsTemperatures in the upper 80s and lower 90s...along with dewpoints in the upper 60s...produced dangerous Heat Index values during the afternoons of the 6th and 7th across portions of the region. Heat Index values both afternoons generally ranged from the mid to upper 90s.
• Heat in Arkansas, August 6, 20184 eventsUpper level high pressure prevailed on August 6, 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across parts of eastern Arkansas.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 6 to 7, 20189 eventsA heat episode brought excessive heat warning conditions to the majority of southeast California.
• Heat in California, August 6 to 9, 20187 eventsA strong high pressure positioned over the Great Basin ushered in excessive temperatures into Southern California August 6-9. The desert areas and the Inland Empire experienced the hottest temperatures in this event.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, August 6 to 8, 201810 deaths · 1 eventTemperatures reached Excessive Heat Warning criteria in Las Vegas. During and immediately after the excessive heat event, ten people died of heat related causes.
• Wildfire in California, August 6 to 31, 2018$500,000 · 1 eventThe Holy Fire started around 2:15 PM PST on August 6th and spread rapidly through the Santa Ana Mountains. Hot temperatures and dry conditions helped exasperate the fire even further.
• Drought in Montana, August 7 to 31, 20182 eventsThe prevailing weather pattern favored a high pressure ridge over the region for many weeks. A persistent lack of rainfall for northern Phillips and northern Valley Counties led to small areas of Severe Drought Conditions (D-2) which lasted throughout the month of August.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 8 to 9, 20182 eventsA strong high pressure system built westward from the Desert Southwest region on August 6 which provided for two days of hot temperatures across the Kern County Deserts on August 7 and 8. Highs generally ranged between 106 and 111 degrees on both days.
• Excessive Heat in Montana, August 9 to 12, 20186 eventsA stalled ridge of strong high pressure over the region allowed high temperatures to climb well into the triple digits for many locations for multiple days. Relative humidity values increased enough to make conditions unusually humid.
• Excessive Heat in Montana, August 9 to 10, 20186 eventsA ridge of high pressure brought a record breaking heat wave across lower elevations in northwest Montana August 9th and 10th.
• Excessive Heat in Idaho, August 9 to 10, 20183 eventsA ridge of high pressure brought a record breaking heat wave across lower elevations in north central Idaho August 9th and 10th.
• Heat in Nevada, August 11 to 15, 20187 deaths · 1 eventSeven people died in Las Vegas of heat related causes.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 11 to 31, 2018$13 million · 1 eventThe Boyds Wildfire on the west side of Lake Roosevelt near Kettle Falls began on August 11th from an unknown cause and eventually consumed 4712 acres of timber and brush.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 11 to 16, 2018$864,000 · 1 eventThe Grass Valley Wildfire near Grand Coulee began on August 11th from an unknown cause and quickly spread on breezy winds to consume 74,835 acres of grass and scrub land, threatening the nearby towns of Grand Coulee and Electric City by the afternoon of August 12th.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 11 to 31, 2018$13 million · 1 eventVery dry conditions over Eastern Washington during July and August created dry fuel conditions across the region. Scattered dry thunderstorms moving through the region during the morning of August 11th triggered an estimated 20 new fire starts in the mountains north of Twisp.
• Drought in South Dakota, August 14 to 31, 20184 eventsAfter some improvement in the drought conditions in early July in the James Valley, much below normal rainfall in early August resulted in severe drought conditions redeveloping by mid August.
• Heat in Nevada, August 16 to 20, 20184 deaths · 1 eventFour people died in Las Vegas of heat related causes.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arkansas, August 16, 201812 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of August 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across western parts of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Mississippi, August 16, 20187 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of August 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across western parts of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Tennessee, August 16, 20183 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of August 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across western parts of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Missouri, August 16, 20182 eventsUpper level high pressure dominated the region during the middle of August 2018. High temperatures and humidity combined to create dangerous heat indices across western parts of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Maryland, August 17, 20181 death · 1 eventRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Wildfire in Nevada, August 17 to 31, 20181 injured · 1 eventThunderstorms ignited a large and destructive wildfire in northern Nevada. The fire was called the South Sugarloaf Fire.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 18 to 31, 201818 deaths · 7 eventsHot temperatures during the latter half of August 2018 led to additional fatalities for the month. High pressure aloft along with plentiful sunshine allowed for temperatures to reach dangerous levels.
• Heat in Arizona, August 18 to 19, 20184 deaths · 4 eventsHigh pressure over the Desert Southwest allowed for temperatures to climb to dangerous levels on the 18th and 19th of August. Four heat-associated fatalities (three direct and one indirect) were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Wildfire in Nevada, August 18 to 30, 20182 injured · 1 eventA large wildfire burned across the Sheep Creek Range consuming 59,742 acres.
• Drought in Iowa, August 21 to 31, 20183 eventsDry conditions remained across portions of southern Iowa through the middle of the month leading to an expansion of severe drought conditions.
• Drought in Texas, August 21 to 31, 20182 eventsContinued hot and dry weather, along with moderate to high late summer evaporation rates, worsened drought conditions across the Rio Grande Plains of Zapata and Jim Hogg County to close out August 2018.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 24 to 26, 20181 injured · 1 eventThree fires blackened 2800 acres of brush in leeward West Maui near Lahaina. The blazes were fueled by dry vegetation and whipped up by winds from Hurricane Lane that was south of Maui County at the time.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 24 to 25, 20181 injured · 1 eventA fire near the Kahe Power Plant in West Oahu scorched 275 acres of dry brush. The blaze did not damage any structures or other property. A woman in the area was treated for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire was believed to be from arcing from the power plant.
• Heat in Missouri, August 25 to 26, 20188 injured · 2 eventsHigh temperatures were in the mid 90s with heat index values around 105 in the St. Louis metro area. Eight people were admitted to local hospitals for heat related illnesses.
• Excessive Heat in Missouri, August 26 to 28, 20187 injured · 2 eventsHigh temperatures were in the mid 90s with heat index values around 105 in the St. Louis metro area for four straight days. Therefore the heat advisory was upgraded to an Excessive Heat Warning during the early morning hours of August 26th.
• Heat in Nevada, August 27 to 29, 20183 deaths · 1 eventThree people died in Las Vegas of heat related causes.
• Heat in New York, August 28 to 29, 201836 eventsHazy, hot and humid conditions enveloped the region from Tuesday, August 28th through Wednesday, August 29th. This prompted a heat advisory to be issued both days for all locations below 1000 feet. Maximum heat index values ranged from the low 90's to the low 100's.
• Heat in Connecticut, August 28 to 29, 20184 eventsHazy, hot and humid conditions enveloped the region from Tuesday, August 28th through Wednesday, August 29th. This prompted a heat advisory to be issued both days for all locations below 1000 feet. Maximum heat index values ranged from the low 90's to the low 100's.
• Heat in Massachusetts, August 28 to 29, 20184 eventsHazy, hot and humid conditions enveloped the region from Tuesday, August 28th through Wednesday, August 29th. This prompted a heat advisory to be issued both days for all locations below 1000 feet. Maximum heat index values ranged from the low 90's to the low 100's.
• Heat in Vermont, August 28 to 29, 20184 eventsHazy, hot and humid conditions enveloped the region from Tuesday, August 28th through Wednesday, August 29th. This prompted a heat advisory to be issued both days for all locations below 1000 feet. Maximum heat index values ranged from the low 90's to the low 100's.
• Heat in Maryland, August 28, 20181 death · 8 eventsRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Virginia, August 28, 20187 eventsRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in New York, August 28, 20181 death · 1 eventA bermuda high pumped hot and humid air northward across the area.
• Heat in Arizona, August 28 to 31, 20188 deaths · 6 eventsAn area of high pressure over the Desert Southwest allowed for temperatures to climb high enough to result in several heat-associated fatalities. Eight heat-associated fatalities (one direct and seven indirect) were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Heat in Maryland, August 29, 20188 eventsRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Virginia, August 29, 20186 eventsRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Drought in Texas, August 30 to 31, 20182 eventsSevere (D2) drought conditions redeveloped during the last couple days of August across much of Smith County Texas, and spread east into Northern Rusk County, given the persistent period of dryness that had again set in across the area, as well as temperatures in the upper 90s…
• Drought in Missouri, September 1 to 30, 201831 eventsWhile much of the area saw some relief from the drought, many counties remained in D2-D4 status through the month of September. While the full scope of drought impacts are unknown, many farmers took losses on their hay and corn, opting to bale it for livestock or knock it down.
• Drought in Oklahoma, September 1 to 30, 201820 eventsExtreme drought was eliminated and severe drought was greatly reduced through the month of September. By the end of the month, severe drought was confined to southwest Oklahoma.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 2018$20,000 · 5 eventsSevere drought conditions at the beginning of September 2018 were eradicated by above-normal rainfall over all but 5 Central Texas counties by the end of the month.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 11, 201819 eventsAfter a month of record setting rain in some places and nearly all of South Central Texas receiving at least 150% of normal all of our counties were in less than Severe (D2) drought at the end of the month.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 201817 eventsAdditional rainfall since early September amounted to around 2 inches and locally 3 inches or greater mainly across the southern and western South Plains and parts of the Rolling Plains.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 10, 201815 eventsSevere drought conditions were extinguished during the second week of September 2018 due to above-normal rainfall across the area.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 20188 eventsExtreme drought was eliminated and severe drought was greatly reduced through the month of September. By the end of the month, severe drought was confined to Hardeman and Wilbarger counties.
• Drought in Kansas, September 1 to 30, 20186 eventsWhile much of the area saw some relief from the drought, many counties remained in D2-D4 status through the month of September. While the full scope of drought impacts are unknown, many farmers took losses on their hay and corn, opting to bale it for livestock or knock it down.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 12, 20186 eventsSevere (D2) drought conditions continued across much of Northeast Texas to start September, including much of Franklin, Titus, Wood, Smith, Gregg, and Northern Rusk Counties.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 26, 20186 eventsExtreme (D3) and severe (D2) drought conditions continued across much of Northeast Texas to start September, with the extreme drought confined across Eastern Titus, Morris, Western Cass, Western Marion, Northwest Harrison, Northern Gregg, Eastern Upshur, and Eastern Camp…
• Drought in South Dakota, September 1 to 30, 20185 eventsSevere drought conditions that redeveloped in August remained throughout September for the upper James Valley. The corn and soybean conditions had worsened throughout the month with low yields expected for several areas.
• Drought in Iowa, September 1 to 4, 20185 eventsSeveral heavy rainfall events across Iowa in late August to early September helped end drought conditions in portions of southern Iowa.
• Drought in Louisiana, September 1 to 26, 20184 eventsExtreme (D3) drought continued across Northern Bossier, much of Webster, Northern Bienville, and Southwest Claiborne Parishes to start the month of September, while severe (D2) drought conditions encompassed the remainder of these parishes.
• Drought in Oklahoma, September 1 to 30, 20184 eventsMuch of northeastern Oklahoma received below average rainfall during September 2018. Some areas only received between a half inch and two inches of rain during the month, which corresponds to 25 to 50 percent of the normal average rainfall for the area for September.
• Drought in Iowa, September 1 to 30, 20184 eventsExtreme drought conditions saw improvement across south central into southeast Iowa with several rounds of rainfall in southern Iowa from late August through much of September.
• Drought in Louisiana, September 1 to 12, 20183 eventsSevere (D2) drought conditions continued across Northern Desoto, much of Lincoln, and Western Union Parishes to start the month of September.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 10, 20182 eventsHot temperatures and lack of rainfall allowed severe to extreme drought to persist in the Rio Grande Plains until heavy rainfall arrived due to persistent tropical moisture from disturbed weather in the Gulf of Mexico just after Labor Day.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 2018$3.5 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from human causes about a mile northwest of Basalt in early July. Difficult terrain and continued hot and dry conditions led the fire to persist for several months.
• Drought in New Mexico, September 1 to 30, 201837 eventsWidespread severe to extreme drought conditions at the end of August 2018 continued through September 2018 despite more rounds of showers and thunderstorms with locally heavy rainfall.
• Drought in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 201821 eventsDrought conditions in western Colorado persisted during the month of September as a result of continued below normal precipitation and above normal temperatures.
• Drought in Utah, September 1 to 30, 20187 eventsDrought conditions in eastern Utah persisted during the month of September as a result of the continued below normal precipitation and above normal temperatures.
• Drought in Montana, September 1 to 27, 20182 eventsThrough most of the month of September, the overall weather pattern shifted to favor more precipitation for northern Valley and northern Phillips Counties.
• Drought in New Mexico, September 1 to 30, 20182 eventsSlightly below average rainfall again in September brought little change to the drought conditions for northwest Grant County.
• Heat in Arizona, September 1 to 6, 20188 deaths · 8 eventsHot temperatures resulted in several heat-associated fatalities during the first part of the month. Eight heat-associated fatalities (3 direct and 5 indirect) were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Heat in New York, September 3 to 6, 201817 eventsA late-season heat wave impacted eastern New York during the first week of September. A persistent warm and moist airmass characterized by daytime highs in the 90s and dewpoints in the 70s resulted in heat index values reaching 95-105 degrees during the afternoon hours.
• Heat in Vermont, September 3 to 6, 20182 eventsA late-season heat wave impacted southern Vermont during the first week of September.
• Heat in Massachusetts, September 3 to 6, 20182 eventsA late-season heat wave impacted western Massachusetts during the first week of September.
• Heat in Connecticut, September 3 to 6, 20182 eventsA late-season heat wave impacted northwestern Connecticut during the first week of September. A persistent warm and moist airmass characterized by daytime highs in the 90s and dewpoints in the 70s resulted in heat index values reaching 95-105 degrees during the afternoon hours.
• Heat in Virginia, September 4, 20189 eventsRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Maryland, September 4, 20184 eventsRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in West Virginia, September 4, 20183 eventsRidging at the surface and aloft led to hot and humid conditions.
• Heat in Nevada, September 7 to 9, 20183 deaths · 2 eventsThree people died in southern Nevada of heat related causes.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, September 8 to 13, 20185 deaths · 8 eventsHigh pressure over the region led to dangerous heat between September 8th through the 13th. Five direct heat fatalities were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Excessive Heat in California, September 8, 20185 eventsA heat episode resulted in excessive heat warning conditions over portions of southeast California.
• Heat in Arizona, September 10 to 11, 20182 deaths · 2 eventsHot temperatures were experienced in southern Pima County September 10th and 11th with high temperatures of 102 and 104 at Sells, respectively and 101 at Sasabe both days.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, September 14 to 17, 20188 deaths · 17 eventsHigh pressure over the region allowed for temperatures to reach excessive heat warning conditions. Eight direct heat/excessive heat fatalities were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, September 15 to 30, 20183 injured · $10 million · 2 eventsThe Roosevelt Fire began as a campfire that was left unattended and spread to eventually burned over 61,000 acres in Lincoln and Sublette Counties. The fire was reported by a father and son hunting party on September 15th in the Wyoming Range.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 15 to 16, 2018$15,000 · 1 eventA fire began about 2 miles south of the Pocatello Regional Airport near Michaud Creek Road. The fire began around 1 pm MDT on the 15h and 40 mph winds spread the fire rapidly to 254 acres on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation.
• Wildfire in Utah, September 15, 20185 injured · $600,000 · 1 eventA human caused fire developed during the afternoon of September 15 in Herriman. The fire destroyed two homes before being contained that evening.
• Heat in Nevada, September 17, 20181 death · 1 eventOne person died in Las Vegas of heat related causes.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, September 22 to 27, 20184 deaths · 2 eventsStrong high pressure aloft along with plentiful sunshine allowed for temperatures to reach dangerous levels during the latter half of September.
• Heat in Arizona, September 22 to 23, 20182 deaths · 2 eventsUpper level ridging over the southwest United States allowed for temperatures to climb to dangerous levels on the 22nd and 23rd of September. Two indirect fatalities were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 22 to 25, 2018$100,000 · 1 eventA fire which was begun 5 miles southeast of Soda Springs by sparks from a welder repairing a mail box, burned 1,066 acres and destroyed 2 summer homes and 2 trailers. The fire began September 22nd at around 2 pm MDT and was 100 percent contained on September 25th.
• Heat in Arizona, September 27, 20182 deaths · 2 eventsAn area of high pressure centered over the northern Baja Peninsula allowed for temperatures to climb nearly 10 degrees above seasonal normals. Two direct heat fatalities were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.
• Drought in Missouri, October 1 to 9, 201823 eventsAfter a very dry summer, exceptional drought (D4) conditions were experienced area-wide, resulting in heavy losses for local farmers. Things changed in October when widespread heavy rain effectively ended that drought.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 8, 20186 eventsEarly October saw an exceptionally moist and unsettled pattern grip much of West Texas. The ensuing periodic rounds of rainfall produced generally between 3 and 6 inches of rain over much of the South Plains, Rolling Plains and southern Texas Panhandle.
• Drought in Kansas, October 1 to 9, 20185 eventsAfter a very dry summer, exceptional drought (D4) conditions were experienced area-wide, resulting in heavy losses for local farmers. Things changed in October when widespread heavy rain effectively ended that drought.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 9, 20184 eventsSevere drought conditions in place over a few Central Texas counties ended by the middle of October following substantial rainfall received during the first half of the month.
• Drought in Iowa, October 1 to 9, 20184 eventsHeavy rainfall into the first part of October led to continued improvement of drought conditions in southern Iowa with all severe drought ending. Only a small area of moderate drought remains.
• Drought in South Dakota, October 1 to 16, 20184 eventsThe severe drought conditions in September continued into early October before finally improving by mid October. Several rounds of rainfall along with some snowfall resulted in the improving drought conditions.
• Drought in Oklahoma, October 1 to 8, 20183 eventsDrought conditions were eliminated across southwestern Oklahoma.
• Drought in Oklahoma, October 1 to 24, 20183 eventsMuch of eastern Oklahoma received average to above average rainfall during October 2018.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 9, 2018$3.5 million · 1 eventA wildfire began from human activities about one mile northwest of Basalt. Difficult terrain and continued hot and dry conditions led the fire to persist for several months.
• Drought in New Mexico, October 1 to 31, 201835 eventsWidespread severe to extreme drought conditions at the end of September 2018 improved slightly through October 2018 due to several rounds of showers and thunderstorms with locally heavy rainfall.
• Drought in Colorado, October 1 to 31, 201821 eventsAbove normal precipitation and cooler than normal temperatures occurred across much of western Colorado in October. This allowed for some improvement in the state of the drought, generally north of Interstate 70.
• Drought in Utah, October 1 to 31, 20187 eventsAbove normal precipitation and cooler than normal temperatures were experienced across much of eastern Utah in October. This allowed for some improvement in the state of the drought across portions of east-central and northeast Utah.
• Drought in New Mexico, October 1 to 31, 20183 eventsEven with a fairly wet month of October, little change occurred as far as drought conditions across southern New Mexico due to the extended period of below normal precipitation.
• Drought in Arizona, October 1 to 16, 20182 eventsExtreme drought (D3 category), which began in southeast Arizona in January and peaked in areal coverage from late May through early July, ended by the middle of October. Severe drought (D2 category) remained north of the Gila River in Graham and Greenlee Counties.
• Heat in Arizona, October 4, 20181 death · 1 eventHot temperatures during the beginning of October resulted in a heat-associated fatality. One indirect heat fatality was reported by the Marciopa County Department of Public Health.
• Drought in New Mexico, November 1 to 30, 201830 eventsWidespread moderate to severe drought conditions at the end of October 2018 continued to improve through November 2018 across southern and eastern portions of the state.
• Drought in Colorado, November 1 to 30, 201821 eventsNovember 2018 was a great month for enhancing the snowpack as several disturbances moved across western Colorado and produced significant early season snow accumulations.
• Drought in Utah, November 1 to 30, 20187 eventsNovember 2018 was a great month for enhancing the snowpack as several disturbances moved across eastern Utah and produced significant early season snow accumulations.
• Drought in New Mexico, November 1 to 30, 20183 eventsAnother month of below normal temperatures helped to keep the status quo of severe drought in the Gila region, but a slight improvement in southeast Otero County.
• Drought in Texas, November 1 to 6, 20182 eventsSome late October rain helped to improve drought conditions over Hudspeth County in early November.
• Wildfire in California, November 8 to 25, 201886 deaths · 12 injured · $17 billion · 1 eventAn extended period of dry weather through the summer and fall with above normal temperatures coupled with a gusty north to northeast wind event created a situation for extremely rapid fire growth.
• Wildfire in California, November 8 to 15, 20182 eventsThe Hill Fire started in early November during a strong Santa Ana wind event. The combination of gusty winds and very dry conditions allowed the fire to grow quickly, eventually charring 4,531 acres.
• Wildfire in California, November 8 to 22, 201815 deaths · 5 eventsThe Woolsey Fire burned 96,949 acres in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, destroying over 1500 structures. The fire ignited during a strong Santa Ana wind event and the combination of gusty winds and very dry conditions allowed the fire to spread very quickly.
• Drought in New Mexico, December 1 to 31, 201823 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions across portions of western and central New Mexico at the end of November 2018 improved only slightly through December 2018. Unfortunately, extreme to exceptional drought conditions also persisted over the northwestern half of the state.
• Drought in Colorado, December 1 to 31, 201814 eventsThe state of the drought remained unchanged across western Colorado during the month of December. Some sites received above normal precipitation with cooler than normal temperatures, while others ended the month warmer and drier than normal.
• Drought in Utah, December 1 to 31, 20186 eventsThe state of the drought remained unchanged across eastern Utah during the month of December. Some sites received above normal precipitation with cooler than normal temperatures, while others ended the month warmer and drier than normal.
• Drought in New Mexico, December 1 to 31, 20183 eventsAnother below normal month of precipitation kept parts of Grant and Otero counties in Severe(D2) drought through the month of December.

Every billion-dollar disasterEvery storm of 2018Tornadoes in 2018

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.