Western/Central Drought and Heat Wave

Losses, 2024 dollars

$5.4 billion

Losses at the time

$4.5 billion

Deaths

45

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 Guam, June 1 to 30, 20204 eventsDry weather continues to persist across a few locations in Micronesia so that drought conditions continue.
• Drought in Oklahoma, June 1 to 30, 202014 eventsA sudden end to rains during May led to the rapid expansion of drought during the month over much of northwestern Oklahoma.
• Drought in Texas, June 1 to 30, 20208 eventsBelow-average precipitation, which begin in April, continued through May and into June across portions of the Texas Panhandle.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, June 1 to 6, 202010 deaths · 32 eventsStrong high pressure developed over the region at the beginning of the month, leading to excessive heat conditions as temperatures soared near to above 110 degrees.
• Drought in New Mexico, June 1 to 30, 202023 eventsDrought conditions across northern and eastern New Mexico continued to deteriorate during the month of June. Moderate to extreme drought worsened to about 53 percent of the state of which about 11 percent across northern NM was deemed as extreme drought.
• Drought in Colorado, June 1 to 30, 202010 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Colorado during the month of June. As a result, drought conditions in southwest Colorado either persisted or worsened.
• Excessive Heat in California, June 2 to 4, 20204 eventsA large area of upper level high pressure formed over the Southwestern U.S. and brought some major heat to inland areas of Southern California June 2nd through 4th. Many places went over the century mark from the Inland Empire to the deserts.
• Excessive Heat in California, June 3 to 4, 202010 eventsStrong high pressure over the region led to excessive heat conditions across southeast California.
• Heat in California, June 3 to 4, 202013 eventsA large area of upper high pressure centered over the four corners region strengthened on June 3 and pushed an upper low off the southern California coast southwest and further away from the region.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, June 3 to 5, 20209 eventsVery hot temperatures were experienced in parts of southeast Arizona from June 3rd through June 5th with high temperatures exceeding established records in many locations. No heat related fatalities were reported.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, June 3 to 4, 20204 eventsStrong high pressure led to widespread Excessive Heat Warning conditions over the Mojave Desert.
• Wildfire and Strong Wind in California, June 5 to 16, 20201 injured · 12 eventsAn upper low along with a second shortwave trough moved through the region the first weekend of June. A strong onshore pressure gradient brought gusty winds to much of the area. Observations showed gusts of 40 to 60 mph throughout the Bay Area and Central Coast.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 5 to 30, 20207 injured · 4 eventsLightning ignited the Bighorn Fire on the west side of the Santa Catalina Mountains during the evening of June 5th.
• Drought in Texas, June 9 to 30, 202010 eventsBelow-average precipitation, which begin in April, continued through May and into June across portions of the Texas Panhandle.
• Heat in Arizona, June 12, 20201 death · 1 eventStrengthening high pressure building into the region led to temperatures climbing to 110 degrees in Phoenix on the 12th. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, one heat-associated fatality occurred on this day.
• Heat in Oklahoma, June 13, 20202 deaths · 1 eventTwo young children entered their father's truck by themselves during the afternoon of June 13th in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They became locked in the vehicle for about five hours, and were found dead that evening, having succumbed to the extreme heat in the locked truck.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 13 to 30, 2020$1.0 million · 1 eventAfter two consecutive years with a wet winter, the desert wildland-urban interface north and east of Phoenix saw a boost in vegetative growth.
• Wildfire in California, June 17 to 26, 20204 eventsPersistently warm and dry conditions combined with breezy onshore afternoon and evening winds increased fire weather concerns across the region. Multiple wildfires broke out in late June across Monterey County.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 18 to 25, 2020$1.0 million · 1 eventThe Bush Fire started June 13 at around 2:00 PM along Highway 87 in Maricopa County (Weather Forecast Office Phoenix's County Warning Area).
• Heat in Vermont, June 18 to 23, 20208 eventsThe 2nd longest heatwave in modern history (1900-onward) occurred across portions of NY and VT from June 18th through June 23rd. Temperatures exceeded 90 degrees for up to 6 consecutive days in portions of the Champlain and Connecticut River valleys.
• Heat in New York, June 18 to 23, 20205 eventsThe 2nd longest heatwave in modern history (1900-onward) occurred across portions of NY and VT from June 18th through June 23rd. Temperatures exceeded 90 degrees for up to 6 consecutive days in portions of the St. Lawrence and Champlain Valleys.
• Heat in Maine, June 19, 20206 eventsTemperatures in the 90s...along with dewpoints ranging from around 60 to the lower 60s...combined to produce apparent temperatures in the mid to upper 90s across portions of the region. The actual high temperature of 96 at Caribou tied the all time record high.
• Heat in Arizona, June 21, 20201 death · 1 eventAbove normal temperatures occurred in southeast Arizona on June 21st with high temperatures around 105 degrees on the Tohono O'odham Nation. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one adult male south of Sells.
• Heat in California, June 23 to 27, 20201 death · 11 eventsA large upper ridge built into central California on June 22 and strengthened over the area on June 23 resulting in widespread triple digit heat across the San Joaquin Valley between June 23 and June 27.
• Heat in Arizona, June 24 to 28, 20206 deaths · 4 eventsStrong high pressure over the Desert Southwest led to temperatures climbing at or above 110 degrees in Phoenix for several days at the end of the month. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 6 heat-associated fatalities occurred during this time.
• Heat in Arizona, June 28, 20201 death · 1 eventAbove normal temperatures occurred in southeast Arizona on June 28th with high temperatures around 100 degrees on the Tohono O'odham Nation. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one young adult male south of Sells.
• Wildfire in California, June 28 to 29, 20201 death · 1 eventNear sunset on the 28th, a brush fire started in Imperial county California and quickly became out of control due to strong winds. The fire spread into the small town of Niland destroying numerous houses and structures.
• Drought in Guam, July 1 to 31, 20204 eventsDrought continues in a few locations in Micronesia.
• Heat in Texas, June 30, 20207 eventsThe summer heat really started showing in late June and early July. A Heat Advisory for Heat Index values over 105 degrees was issued beginning June 30th and continuing into the first few days of July.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 1 to 3, 20201 death · 1 eventHot temperatures and high humidity led to heat advisories being issued across Oklahoma.
• Drought in Oklahoma, July 1 to 31, 202015 eventsRepeated rainfall led to the relaxation of drought over north central Oklahoma, while drought persisted across much of western Oklahoma.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 202011 eventsAfter almost a two year hiatus, drought conditions returned to the South Plains of West Texas in July. Some areas of the South Plains experienced much below normal rainfall in the spring months.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 20209 eventsThe far northwest Texas Panhandle had been in Severe Drought (D2) since May, 2020.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 20207 eventsNearly all of South Central Texas had less than 50% of normal precipitation in July. Some parts of Uvalde, Kinney, Zavala, and Maverick Counties had less than 10% of normal.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 21, 20205 eventsThe far northwest Texas Panhandle had been in Severe Drought (D2) since May, 2020.
• Drought in New Mexico, July 1 to 31, 202028 eventsDrought conditions across northern and eastern New Mexico continued to deteriorate during the month of July. Moderate to extreme drought worsened to about 94 percent of the state of which about 14 percent across northern and southeast New Mexico was deemed as extreme drought.
• Wildfire in Arizona, July 1 to 23, 20202 injured · 4 eventsLightning ignited the Bighorn Fire on the west side of the Santa Catalina Mountains during the evening of June 5th. The fire spread rapidly over the subsequent days and weeks, driven by multiple days of strong winds before becoming fully contained on July 23rd.
• Drought in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 202012 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Colorado during the month of July. As a result, drought conditions in southwest and west-central Colorado either persisted or worsened.
• Drought in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 20203 eventsThe drought status for these counties remained largely unchanged, except for the drought worsening to D3 for the far western part of Yuma County. Heavy rainfall events occurred over the eastern parts of these counties, which lessened the drought over the eastern half.
• Heat in Texas, July 1 to 2, 202028 eventsA Heat Advisory that began on June 30th for parts of North and Central Texas continued into the first few days of July due to Heat Index values between 105 to 110 degrees.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, July 1 to 2, 202019 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed into the Southern Plains in early July, setting the stage for a couple days of excessive heat. Temperatures across eastern Oklahoma in the 90s, combined with high humidity, resulted in afternoon heat indices near 110 degrees on July 1st and 2nd.
• Heat in Texas, July 3, 20207 eventsAn upper level ridge that had been dominant over the Southern Plains and Ark-La-Tex region to start the first couple of days of July had weakened by July 3rd, with a weak upper level disturbance sliding south into Southeast Oklahoma, Southwest Arkansas, and North Louisiana.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 3, 20206 eventsAn upper level ridge that had been dominant over the Southern Plains and Ark-La-Tex region to start the first couple of days of July had weakened by July 3rd, with a weak upper level disturbance sliding south into Southeast Oklahoma, Southwest Arkansas, and North Louisiana.
• Wildfire in Arizona, July 3 to 25, 20201 death · 1 eventThe Polles Fire (pronounced Poll-E) burned burning in the Mazatzal Wilderness on top of the Polles Mesa, approximately 11 miles west of Payson, AZ and 6 miles south of Pine-Strawberry, AZ. It eventually burned 638 acres.
• Heat in Arizona, July 3 to 8, 202018 deaths · 6 eventsStrong high pressure centered over the Desert Southwest allowed for temperatures to reach or exceed 110 degrees during the early part of July. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 18 heat-associated fatalities occurred during this time.
• Wildfire in California, July 4 to 13, 20204 eventsA ridge of high pressure over the desert southwest brought warm and dry conditions across the Central Coast and Bay Area around the Fourth of July.
• Heat in Arizona, July 5, 20201 death · 1 eventAbove normal temperatures occurred in southeast Arizona on July 5th with high temperatures just above 100 degrees in southeast Cochise County. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one adult male west of Douglas.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 5 to 8, 20201 death · 1 injured · 2 eventsAn upper high pressure over the Desert Southwest led to hot and dry weather for portions of the inland areas of Southern California, which contributed to heat related illness and even a fatality.
• Drought in Minnesota, July 7 to 28, 20207 eventsPortions of northern Minnesota have seen rainfall deficits in excess of 5 inches for the year and by July areas of Severe Drought (D2) were observed across parts of the area.
• Heat in New York, July 7 to 10, 20205 eventsExcessive heat returned to the St. Lawrence Valley on what has already been a hot and dry early summer. High temperatures surpassed 90 degrees from July 7-10th with a record daily high of 99 degrees on July 10th. This was the 2nd highest temperature ALL-TIME at Massena, NY.
• Heat in Vermont, July 7 to 10, 20205 eventsExcessive heat returned to the Champlain Valley on what has already been a very warm early summer.
• Heat in Texas, July 7, 20201 death · 1 eventA 4 year old boy died in a hot car in Denton County.
• Heat in Arizona, July 8, 20202 deaths · 2 eventsAbove normal temperatures occurred in southeast Arizona on July 8th with high temperatures around 105 degrees in Santa Cruz and eastern Pima counties.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 9 to 14, 202047 deaths · 36 eventsA very strong area of high pressure strengthened over the southwest United States, leading to excessive heat conditions across the region. Temperatures in Phoenix exceeded 110 degrees each day with afternoon highs reaching or exceeding 115 degrees on the 11th and the 12th.
• Heat in New York, July 9, 202015 eventsA hot and humid airmass was in place over the Hudson and Mohawk Valleys on July 9th. Heat indices ranged from 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit over most of the area.
• Heat in Texas, July 9 to 13, 202046 eventsFor several days in a row, afternoon Heat Index values soared to between 105-115 degrees. A Heat Advisory was in effect for various parts of the region July 9th through the 13th.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 9 to 14, 20204 eventsA combination of drought conditions, strong high pressure ridging over the area, and southwest down-sloping low level winds led to hot conditions for several days across the Panhandles.
• Excessive Heat and Hail in Texas, July 9, 20203 injured · 1.25 in hail · 6 eventsIntense heat fueled severe thunderstorms on the afternoon and evening of the ninth. Afternoon temperatures peaked between 105 and 110 degrees which combined with enough moisture to create isolated thunderstorms late in the afternoon.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 10 to 13, 20203 deaths · 10 eventsVery hot temperatures were experienced in southeast Arizona from July 10th through July 13th. Many locations exceeded 110 degrees and set new daily record high temperatures.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 10 to 11, 202013 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains on July 10th, began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of the month, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as…
• Heat in Texas, July 10 to 12, 202010 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains on July 10th, began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of the month, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as…
• Heat in Arkansas, July 10 to 16, 20209 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains on July 10th, began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of the month, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as…
• Heat in Texas, July 10 to 12, 20209 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains on July 10th, began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of the month, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as…
• Heat in Louisiana, July 10 to 11, 20204 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains on July 10th, began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of the month, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as…
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, July 11 to 14, 202013 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of July, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as readings climbed…
• Heat and Damaging Winds in New York, July 11, 202050 kt wind · 13 eventsA hot and humid airmass resulted in heat indices around 95 degrees during the afternoon and evening of July 11th in the Hudson Valley.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 11 to 13, 20206 eventsA large and strong area of upper-level high pressure over the Four Corners region contributed to a period of prolonged heat across Southern California. Temperatures rose near 120 degrees across some desert locations.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, July 11, 202021 eventsA large ridge of high pressure over the southern United States during the middle of July set the stage for excessive heat across the region.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 11 to 13, 202011 eventsVery strong high pressure over the region led to excessive heat conditions across southeast California.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in California, July 11 to 12, 202015 eventsA large upper ridge over the southwestern U.S. strengthened over California during the weekend of July 11 and 12 providing the Kern County Deserts with a period of excessive heat and the San Joaquin Valley, West Side Hills and Sierra foothills with a period of significant heat.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 11 to 13, 20207 eventsStrong high pressure brought dangerously hot temperatures to the Mojave Desert.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, July 11 to 13, 20206 eventsStrong high pressure brought dangerously hot temperatures to the Mojave Desert.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 11 to 13, 2020$520,000 · 1 eventDry conditions over central Washington in July created dry fuel conditions across the region. The Road 11 Wildfire developed on July 11th initially burning northward.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 11 to 13, 20207 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of July, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as readings climbed…
• Excessive Heat in Louisiana, July 11 to 14, 20204 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of July, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as readings climbed…
• Wildfire in Texas, July 11 to 13, 20201 injured · 2 eventsThe Campbell Road wildfire began around 1801CST about twelve miles north northeast of Skellytown Texas in Hutchinson County.
• Wildfire in California, July 12 to 15, 202068 injured · $1.0 million · 1 eventArson was attributed to the burning of the Navy's Bonhomme Richard ship, which lasted 4 days with over 60 injuries of navy and fire rescue personnel in the San Diego Bay.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 12 to 13, 20209 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of July, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as readings climbed…
• Excessive Heat in Texas, July 13, 202017 eventsTemperatures exceeded 105 degrees across Atascosa, Bastrop, Bexar, Burnet, Caldwell, De Witt, Fayette, Gillespie, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hays, Kerr, Lee, Llano, Medina, Travis, and Uvalde Counties. The temperature reached 110 in Luling and 109 in New Braunfels.
• Heat in Texas, July 13 to 16, 202011 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of July, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as readings climbed…
• Heat in Texas, July 13 to 16, 20208 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of July, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as readings climbed…
• Drought in Iowa, July 14 to 31, 202011 eventsVery warm temperatures and well below normal rainfall led to the development of drought conditions in portions of west central and central Iowa in July. These conditions slowly expanded in area through the month.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 14 to 16, 202017 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over the Southern Plains began to amplify and expand north-northeast into the Plains and Mississippi Valley through the middle portions of July, resulting in increased subsidence and hence, hotter temperatures as readings climbed…
• Heat in Arizona, July 15 to 17, 202024 deaths · 3 eventsThe Desert Southwest remained under the influence of persistent strong high pressure during the middle part of July. During this time, temperatures peaked around 110 degrees each day.
• Heat in Mississippi, July 15, 202022 eventsUpper-level high pressure prevailed across the region resulting in high heat and humidity. Heat index values at 105 degrees and greater were widespread on July 15, 2020.
• Heat in Tennessee, July 15, 202021 eventsUpper-level high pressure prevailed across the region resulting in high heat and humidity. Heat index values at 105 degrees and greater were widespread on July 15, 2020.
• Heat in Arkansas, July 15, 202010 eventsUpper-level high pressure prevailed across the region resulting in high heat and humidity. Heat index values at 105 degrees and greater were widespread on July 15, 2020.
• Heat in Missouri, July 15, 202011 eventsHeat indices peaked from 105 to 110 degrees in the afternoon ahead of a cold front extending from the St. Louis area to the Ozark Mountains of southwest Missouri.
• Heat in Kentucky, July 15, 20205 eventsIn the Mississippi River counties and the Mayfield area of extreme western Kentucky, heat indices peaked from 105 to 110 degrees in the afternoon. A hot and humid southwest wind prevailed ahead of a cold front extending from the St.
• Heat in Arizona, July 16, 20201 death · 1 eventAbove normal temperatures occurred in southeast Arizona on July 16th with high temperatures of 95 to 100 degrees in southwest Cochise County. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one teenage male near Hereford.
• Heat in Kentucky, July 17 to 21, 202022 eventsA five-day stretch of hot and humid weather occurred from the 17th to the 21st. Afternoon heat indices peaked from 100 to 110 degrees each day. A strong 500 mb high extending from west to east across the southern U.S. was responsible for the hazardous heat indices.
• Heat in Illinois, July 17 to 21, 202019 eventsAlong and south of a line from Carbondale to Harrisburg, a five-day stretch of hot and humid weather occurred from the 17th to the 21st. Afternoon heat indices peaked from 100 to 110 degrees each day.
• Heat in Missouri, July 17 to 21, 202011 eventsA five-day stretch of hot and humid weather occurred from the 17th to the 21st. Afternoon heat indices peaked from 100 to 110 degrees each day. A strong 500 mb high extending from west to east across the southern U.S. was responsible for the hazardous heat indices.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 18 to 22, 202031 deaths · 18 eventsStrong high pressure led to temperatures climbing near to slightly above 110 degrees during a several day period for the latter part of July. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 31 heat-associated fatalities occurred during this time.
• Heat in Alabama, July 18, 20204 eventsThe combination of temperatures in the middle 90s and dew points in the middle to upper 70s, the heat index reached 105 to 107 degrees for several hours during the afternoon and early evening hours in northwest Alabama.
• Heat and Damaging Winds in New York, July 19 to 20, 202050 kt wind · 25 eventsTemperatures soared into the 90s throughout much of eastern New York on July 19th, reaching as high as the mid to upper 90s in the Hudson and Mohawk Valleys. The combination of the heat and a humid airmass brought heat indices into the 95 to 105 degree range.
• Heat in Virginia, July 19, 202017 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-110 degree range.
• Heat in Maryland, July 19, 202014 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-110 degree range.
• Heat in West Virginia, July 19, 20207 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-105 degree range.
• Heat in Indiana, July 19, 20206 eventsAfternoon heat indices peaked around 105 degrees. A strong 500 mb high extending from west to east across the southern U.S. was responsible for the hazardous heat indices.
• Heat in Virginia, July 20, 202024 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-110 degree range.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Maryland, July 20, 202015 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-115 degree range.
• Heat in West Virginia, July 20, 20207 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-105 degree range.
• Heat in Maine, July 20, 20205 eventsTemperatures ranging from the upper 80 to lower 90s...along with dewpoints of around 70 to the lower 70s...combined to produce Heat Index readings in the mid to upper 90s.
• Heat in Alabama, July 20, 20204 eventsTemperatures reached the middle 90s with dew points in the midd to upper 70s. This produced heat index values of 105-107 degrees in portions of northwest Alabama during the mid afternoon hours of the 21st.
• Heat in Alabama, July 20, 20203 eventsTempatures rose into the middle 90s with dew points in the middle 70s. This combination produced heat index values of 105-109 degrees during the mid to late afternoon hours in northwest Alabama.
• Heat in Virginia, July 21, 20206 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-110 degree range.
• Heat in Maryland, July 21, 20203 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-110 degree range.
• Heat in Arizona, July 21, 20202 deaths · 2 eventsAbove normal temperatures occurred in southeast Arizona on July 21st with high temperatures just over 100 degrees in central Pima County.
• Heat and Damaging Winds in New York, July 22 to 23, 202060 kt wind · 14 eventsHeat indices exceeded 95 degrees for two consecutive days over portions of the Mid-Hudson Valley on July 22nd and 23rd. In addition, a few severe thunderstorms developed in the area during both afternoons, resulting in several reports of wind damage.
• Heat in Virginia, July 22, 20208 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-110 degree range.
• Heat in Maryland, July 22, 20203 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-110 degree range.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 23 to 30, 2020$300,000 · 1 eventThe Greenhouse Wildfire started on July 23rd 1 mile southwest of Nespelem on the Colville Indian Reservation. The fire was ignited due to unknown causes, but grew rapidly under very warm and dry conditions.
• Heat in Maryland, July 23, 20203 eventsA ridge of high pressure developed over the eastern United States and western Atlantic, allowing a southwesterly flow to bring plenty of tropical air northward. High temperatures plus high humidity resulted in heat indices in the 100-110 degree range.
• Excessive Heat in North Dakota, July 24, 202010 eventsAfternoon high temperatures over eastern North Dakota and the northwest quarter of Minnesota peaked in the upper 80s to mid 90s on July 24th.
• Excessive Heat in Minnesota, July 24, 20206 eventsAfternoon high temperatures over eastern North Dakota and the northwest quarter of Minnesota peaked in the upper 80s to mid 90s on July 24th.
• Heat in Arizona, July 24, 20201 death · 1 eventAbove normal temperatures occurred in southeast Arizona on July 24th with high temperatures just over 100 degrees in western Pima County. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for a male individual west of Ajo.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, July 26 to 31, 202026 deaths · 35 eventsAnomalously strong high pressure over the Southwest led to temperatures climbing at or above 115 degrees. Temperatures peaked in Phoenix on the 30th at 118 degrees, which ended up being the hottest day of the year.
• Heat and Damaging Wind in New York, July 27 to 28, 202050 kt wind · 22 eventsAnother hot and humid airmass impacted portions of eastern New York on July 27th and 28th. Heat indices reached 95 to 105 degrees on the 27th in the Hudson and Mohawk Valleys. In addition, a severe thunderstorm caused an isolated wind damage report during the evening.
• Drought in Iowa, July 28 to 31, 2020$6.0 million · 6 eventsRainfall of 25 to 50 percent of normal during July, following 50 to 75 percent of normal during June led to the development of severe short-term drought conditions over much of northwest Iowa.
• Drought in South Dakota, July 28 to 31, 2020$40,000 · 1 eventRainfall of 25 to 50 percent of normal during July, following 50 to 75 percent of normal during June led to development of severe short-term drought conditions over extreme southeast South Dakota.
• Heat in Oregon, July 28 to 31, 20207 eventsAn Upper level ridge built over the region the last week of July resulting in very hot temperatures and may record highs. Temperatures exceeded 105 degrees in many locations.
• Heat in Washington, July 28 to 31, 20205 eventsA ridge of high pressure was situated over the inland Northwest from 7/28-7/31, resulting in many record high temperatures.
• Drought in New Mexico, July 28 to 31, 20204 eventsA very dry spring and early summer lead to severe drought conditions developing over parts of Hidalgo, Grant and Luna counties.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 29 to 31, 20202 deaths · 9 eventsVery hot temperatures were experienced in southeast Arizona from July 29th through August 1st. Many locations approached or exceeded 110 degrees and set new daily record high temperatures.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 30 to 31, 202011 eventsVery strong high pressure over the region led to temperatures reaching excessive heat conditions across southeast California at the end of July into the beginning of August.
• Excessive Heat in California, July 30 to 31, 20206 eventsStrong high pressure built over the Mojave Desert, leading to dangerously hot temperatures. This episode continued into August.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, July 30 to 31, 20206 eventsStrong high pressure built over the Mojave Desert, leading to dangerously hot temperatures. This episode continued into August..
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, July 30 to 31, 20204 eventsStrong high pressure built over the Mojave Desert, leading to dangerously hot temperatures. This episode continued into August.
• Drought in Guam, August 1 to 31, 20204 eventsDrought continues in a few location across Micronesia.
• Drought in Iowa, August 1 to 31, 2020$7.7 million · 7 eventsPrecipitation of 25 to 50 percent of normal along with above normal temperatures led to worsening of drought conditions across northwest Iowa.
• Drought in South Dakota, August 1 to 31, 2020$270,000 · 1 eventRainfall of 25 to 50 percent of normal during July and August with above normal temperatures led to persistence of severe short-term drought conditions over southeast South Dakota.
• Drought in Iowa, August 1 to 31, 202017 eventsMinimal rainfall during the summer led to the continued deterioration of conditions across portions of west central into central Iowa. Extreme drought conditions developed in early August and remained for the rest of the month as little rainfall occurred.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 202015 eventsDrought conditions worsened during the month of August due to a continued lack of widespread beneficial rainfall. An area of D4 (exceptional drought) was observed in parts of Lamb, Hale, Hockley, and Lubbock Counties.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 202014 eventsThe U.S. Drought Monitor placed a large portion of West Central Texas in a Severe Drought for the month of August. A period of very hot temperatures and below normal rainfall amounts led to a flash drought across a large part of West Central Texas.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 202011 eventsMany areas across the combined Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles saw improvements in drought going into August. A couple of rain events help keep those areas from degradation during the month with some even improving by the end of the month.
• Drought in Oklahoma, August 1 to 31, 202010 eventsA relative lack of rainfall led to an intensification of drought across western Oklahoma, with some locations experiencing extreme drought conditions by the end of the month.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 20207 eventsAugust was another dry month across South Central Texas with most of the area getting less than normal rainfall and much of the western half of the area receiving less than 25% of normal.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, August 1 to 6, 202040 deaths · 34 eventsA very strong area of high pressure parked over the Southwest United States led to continued excessive heat conditions across the region from the end of July into the beginning of August.
• Drought in New Mexico, August 1 to 31, 202034 eventsDrought conditions across northern and central New Mexico continued to deteriorate during the month of August. Moderate to extreme drought worsened to about 95 percent of the state of which about 22 percent was deemed as extreme drought.
• Drought in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 202021 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Colorado during the month of August.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 1, 20209 eventsVery hot temperatures were experienced in southeast Arizona from July 29th through August 1st. Many locations approached or exceeded 110 degrees and set new daily record high temperatures.
• Drought in New Mexico, August 1 to 31, 20206 eventsVery little rain through the first two-thirds of the monsoon season lead to drought conditions becoming worse across most of southern New Mexico. Some areas over southwest New Mexico were placed into Extreme(D3) drought by the end of the month.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 1, 20204 eventsStrong high pressure continued to bring dangerously hot temperatures to the Mojave Desert. The episode began in July.
• Drought in Nebraska, August 1 to 31, 20204 eventsContinued dry conditions in August along with above normal temperatures, led to the expansion of severe drought conditions. Locations in northern Sheridan, Garden, Deuel and western Keith county were in severe drought conditions by the end of August.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 1 to 5, 2020$450,000 · 3 eventsIn late July, there were many days of gusty winds and record heat that brought elevated fire spread, especially to the Columbia Basin and Okanogan Valley. Three new wildfires were ignited between July 27-30th: Anglin, Green, and Coulee Meadows.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 1 to 3, 202011 eventsVery strong high pressure over the region led to excessive heat conditions continuing from the end of July into the beginning of August across portions of southeast California.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 1, 20206 eventsStrong high pressure continued to bring dangerously hot temperatures to the Mojave Desert. The episode began in July.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, August 1, 20206 eventsStrong high pressure continued to bring dangerously hot temperatures to the Mojave Desert. The episode began in July.
• Excessive Heat and Dense Fog in California, August 1 to 3, 20207 eventsStrong surface high pressure over the Desert Southwest contributed to hot conditions across Southern California for the latter part of July into early August. Many locales broke records along with places in the deserts reaching over 120 degrees at times.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 9, 20201 injured · 1 eventThe Pond Fire burned 1,962 acres across the interior valleys of San Luis Obispo county, east of the community of Santa Margarita. The fire destroyed one structure and one firefighter injury was reported.
• Wildfire in California, August 3 to 17, 20201 death · 1 eventThe Stagecoach fire began 8/3/2020, 9 miles south of Lake Isabella near the town of Havilah. The cause was under investigation. The fire grew rapidly thee first 3 days, then growth slowed and it reached 7.760 acres. No growth was seen after 8/9.
• Heat in Arizona, August 8, 20202 deaths · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced on August 8th with high temperatures just over 105 degrees in central Pima County. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for two males on the Tohono O'odham Nation.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, August 9 to 11, 20205 deaths · 13 eventsStrong high pressure over the region allowed for temperatures to climb above 110 degrees on the 9th and 10th, promoting excessive heat conditions. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, 5 heat-associated fatalities occurred during this event.
• Heat in Arizona, August 10, 20201 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced on August 8th with high temperatures just over 105 degrees in southeast Pima County. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one male just east of the Baboquivari Mountains.
• Heat in Kentucky, August 10, 202022 eventsAhead of a cold front that extended from the upper Mississippi Valley to the central Plains, hot and humid southwest winds prevailed. Afternoon heat indices peaked from 105 to 110 degrees in most areas.
• Heat in Illinois, August 10, 202019 eventsAhead of a cold front that extended from the upper Mississippi Valley to the central Plains, hot and humid southwest winds prevailed. Afternoon heat indices peaked from 105 to 110 degrees.
• Heat in Missouri, August 10, 202011 eventsAhead of a cold front that extended from the upper Mississippi Valley to the central Plains, hot and humid southwest winds prevailed. Afternoon heat indices peaked from 105 to 110 degrees.
• Heat in Indiana, August 10, 20206 eventsAhead of a cold front that extended from the upper Mississippi Valley to the central Plains, hot and humid southwest winds prevailed. Afternoon heat indices peaked around 105 degrees.
• Drought in Utah, August 11 to 31, 20207 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Utah during the month of August. As a result, drought conditions in eastern Utah drastically worsened to the extreme category across the majority of the region by the end of the month.
• Heat in Maine, August 11, 20206 eventsTemperatures ranging from the upper 80s to around 90...along with dewpoints from the upper 60s to lower 70s...combined to produce Heat Index readings in the mid to upper 90s.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 12 to 20, 202043 deaths · 32 eventsA very strong and expansive area of high pressure remained situated over the Desert Southwest for multiple days, allowing for temperatures to reach or exceed 115 degrees most days during this time.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, August 12 to 16, 202070 eventsAugust 12-16th was the hottest period of the year with an extended Heat Advisory and/or Excessive Heat Warning over the region. Actual temperatures soared to around 101-110 degrees in several places with heat index values ranging from 100-115 degrees.
• Wildfire in California, August 12 to 31, 20204 injured · 1 eventThe Lake Fire burned 31,089 acres in the Angeles National Forest, northeast of the community of Azusa. In total, twelve structures were destroyed and another three were damaged. Four firefighter injuries were reported.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, August 13 to 19, 20204 deaths · 8 eventsAn extended period of very hot temperatures were experienced in southeast Arizona from August 13th-19th. Many locations approached or exceeded 110 degrees and set new daily record high temperatures.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 13 to 20, 20201 death · 11 eventsStrong high pressure over the region allowed for temperatures to reach excessive heat conditions for multiple days across southeast California.
• Heat in Texas, August 13, 202021 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over New Mexico into Western Texas and Oklahoma expanded east into East Texas and Western Louisiana on August 13th.
• Heat in Louisiana, August 13, 20209 eventsAn upper level ridge of high pressure centered over New Mexico into Western Texas and Oklahoma expanded east into East Texas and Western Louisiana on August 13th.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 13 to 16, 2020$300,000 · 1 eventThe Trails Wildfire started around 3 pm on August 13 in Horseshoe Bay in Llano County. At the time the fire started temperatures were in the middle to upper 90s, the relative humidity was in the middle 20s percent, and the 10m winds were 5-10 mph with gusts of 15-20 mph.
• Wildfire in California, August 13 to 28, 20208 injured · 1 eventThe Ranch 2 Fire burned 4,237 acres in the Angeles National Forest. No structures were destroyed, but eight firefighter injuries were reported.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 14 to 20, 2020$6.0 million · 15 eventsA large upper high pressure center over the Desert Southwest region built northward and westward on August 14 and maintained it's grip over central California for nearly a week resulting in oppressive heat over the area for several days.
• Excessive Heat and Heavy Rain in California, August 14 to 20, 20208 eventsA large area of mid-level high pressure over the Southwest United States contributed to a long duration heat wave from August 14th through the 20th. Many records were broken with a couple areas receiving impacts from monsoonal thunderstorm activity.
• Excessive Heat in Oregon, August 14 to 17, 20204 eventsHigh pressure and a dry air mass supported very hot temperatures over inland areas during this interval. Minimum temperatures were quite warm as well. The heat was occasionally tempered by high clouds streaming over the area.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 14 to 20, 20202 deaths · 2 eventsA prolonged and significant heat wave occurred in mid August due to high pressure parked over California.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 14 to 21, 20207 eventsStrong and nearly stationary high pressure aloft led to a week long heat wave which set many record high temperatures in the Mojave Desert.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, August 14 to 21, 20207 eventsStrong and nearly stationary high pressure aloft led to a week long heat wave which set many record high temperatures in the Mojave Desert.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 14 to 21, 20204 eventsStrong and nearly stationary high pressure aloft led to a week long heat wave which set many record high temperatures in the Mojave Desert.
• Excessive Heat and Wildfire in California, August 14 to 31, 20204 deaths · 18 injured · 61 kt wind · 29 eventsA prolonged and oppressive heat wave swept the Central Coast and Bay Area for almost a week from August 14th to August 19th with widespread record breaking temperatures observed across the region.
• Heat in Texas, August 15 to 16, 202021 eventsAn upper level ridge centered over Central Texas and Eastern New Mexico continued to provide strong sinking motion and thus compressional heating over East Texas, Southeast Oklahoma, and Western Louisiana, resulting in temperatures climbing into the upper 90s to in excess of 100…
• Heat in Louisiana, August 15 to 16, 20206 eventsAn upper level ridge centered over Central Texas and Eastern New Mexico continued to provide strong sinking motion and thus compressional heating over East Texas, Southeast Oklahoma, and Western Louisiana, resulting in temperatures climbing into the upper 90s to in excess of 100…
• Wildfire in California, August 15 to 25, 20201 death · 1 eventThe Hills Fire started on 8/15/2020, in the foothills about 9 miles south of Coalinga, CA. It grew to 2,121 acres before being contained on 8/25/2020. The cause was under investigation. The cost of containment was $3.9 million. No structures were destroyed or damages.
• Heat in Texas, August 15, 20201 death · 1 eventA heat related death occurred in Vidor.
• Wildfire in California, August 16 to 31, 20202 deaths · 5 eventsDuring mid August, moisture from tropical storm Fausto moved along the coast of southern CA and made landfall over central and northern California.
• Heat in Oregon, August 16 to 17, 20202 deaths · 2 eventsHigh pressure over the region led to a stretch of hot days from August 14 through August 17.
• Heat in Louisiana, August 16, 202011 eventsAn upper level ridge centered over Central Texas and Eastern New Mexico began to slowly slide back to the west on August 16th, as a weak cold front began to slide southeast across Southwest Arkansas, Northeast Texas, and Northern Louisiana.
• Heat in Arkansas, August 16, 20209 eventsAn upper level ridge centered over Central Texas and Eastern New Mexico began to slowly slide back to the west on August 16th, as a weak cold front began to slide southeast across Southwest Arkansas, Northeast Texas, and Northern Louisiana.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 16 to 20, 2020$15,000 · 1 eventThe Chief Timothy Wildfire was located 5 miles west of Clarkston, WA in the Snake River Canyon. It burned a total 1,400 acres of rangeland and no structures were threatened. The cost of firefighting resources to contain the blaze was estimated at 339,000 dollars.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 17 to 31, 20204 eventsRed Flag Warnings issued due to low relative humidity, gusty winds and dry thunderstorms with gusty and erratic outflow winds.
• Drought in Maine, August 18 to 31, 20206 eventsSevere drought expanded across much of the remainder of northern Maine during mid August. The severe drought also expanded across the remainder of Piscataquis county and all of Washington county.
• Drought in Nebraska, August 18 to 31, 2020$160,000 · 1 eventRainfall of 25 to 50 percent of normal during July and August with above normal temperatures led to the development of severe short-term drought conditions over much of northeast Nebraska.
• Drought in Iowa, August 18 to 31, 20205 eventsDry conditions for much of the summer led to expanding drought conditions across portions of northwest and central Iowa.
• Drought in Texas, August 18 to 31, 20204 eventsSevere drought conditions in Central Texas expanded west and east as the month progressed.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 18 to 23, 20201 death · 1 eventA heat wave was forecast for the initial part of this event; however, with many massive wildfires over northern California, intense heating was suppressed to wildfire smoke.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 19 to 21, 2020$100,000 · 1 eventThe Lost Oak Wildfire started around 3 pm on August 19 11 miles east of Johnson City in Blanco County. At the time the fire started temperatures were in the middle 90s, the relative humidity was in the middle 10s percent, and the 3m winds were less than 5 mph.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 20, 20201 death · 1 eventA prolonged period of unseasonably high temperatures was observed in southeast California during the middle of August. Daily afternoon temperatures reached up to 105-115 each day, with lows only falling into the upper-70s to low-80s.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 23 to 28, 202020 deaths · 32 eventsStrong high pressure centered near the Four Corners allowed for temperatures to climb above 110 degrees each day, leading to excessive heat conditions. Record highs were set in Phoenix on the 24th (115 degrees) and on the 27th (113 degrees).
• Heat in Arizona, August 23, 20201 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced on August 23rd with high temperatures in the upper 90s in southwest Cochise County. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one male.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, August 24 to 27, 20204 deaths · 5 eventsVery hot temperatures were experienced in the lower deserts of southeast Arizona from August 24th-27th. Many locations approached or exceeded 110 degrees and set new daily record high temperatures.
• Excessive Heat in California, August 24 to 28, 20209 eventsStrong high pressure over the region led to multiple days with excessive heat conditions across southeast California.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, August 24 to 27, 20205 eventsYet again, high pressure strengthened over the Desert Southwest, leading to another period of excessive heat.
• Drought in Iowa, August 25 to 31, 2020$3.8 million · 2 eventsRainfall of 25 to 50 percent of normal during July and August with above normal temperatures led to the development of severe short-term drought conditions over much of northwest Iowa.
• Drought in South Dakota, August 25 to 31, 2020$600,000 · 1 eventPrecipitation of 25 to 50 percent of normal along with above normal temperatures led to expansion of drought conditions across southeast South Dakota.
• Drought in Texas, August 25 to 31, 202010 eventsSevere drought conditions developed across parts of North and Central Texas towards the end of the month.
• Drought in Missouri, August 25 to 31, 20206 eventsDuring the end of August the combination of warm temperatures, lack of rainfall over the previous 30-90 days and falling stream levels worked together to produce Severe drought conditions across portions of Greene, Christian, Stone, Webster, Douglas and Lawrence counties.
• Drought in Arizona, August 25 to 31, 20208 eventsThe extreme drought (D3) category was reached in late August across most of Graham County, northern and central Greenlee County, northwest Cochise County and eastern portions of Pima and Pinal counties, including San Carlos Apache tribal lands, the White Mountains, the Pinaleno…
• Wildfire in Washington, August 27 to 30, 2020$75,000 · 1 eventThe Bartholomew Wildfire began on August 27 about 1 mile east of Medical Lake along Highway 902. The wildfire burned an approximate 200 acres of grass, shrub, and forest lands. An additional 50 acres were lost on the Fairchild Air Force Base.
• Heat in Texas, August 28 to 29, 202013 eventsIn the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, very hot and humid conditions lingered across Northeast Texas on August 28th, as afternoon temperatures climbed into the mid to upper 90s.
• Heat in Arkansas, August 28 to 29, 20207 eventsIn the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, very hot and humid conditions lingered across Southwest Arkansas on August 28th, as afternoon temperatures climbed into the lower to mid 90s.
• Heat in Texas, August 28 to 29, 20205 eventsIn the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, very hot and humid conditions lingered across East Texas on August 28th and 29th, as afternoon temperatures climbed into the mid to upper 90s each day.
• Heat in Louisiana, August 28 to 31, 20204 eventsIn the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, very hot and humid conditions lingered across Western Louisiana on August 28th, as afternoon temperatures climbed into the lower to mid 90s.
• Heat in Arizona, August 28, 20201 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced on August 28th with high temperatures around 100 degrees in southeast Cochise County. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one male.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Texas, August 28 to 31, 202065 eventsHeat Advisory and Excessive Heat Warning criteria was met across the region at the end of the month.
• Heat in Texas, August 28 to 31, 20204 eventsA stout mid level ridge built over Deep South Texas during the last few days of August, allowing high temperatures to climb.
• Wildfire in Arizona, August 28 to 31, 2020$15,000 · 1 eventThe human caused Light Fire started on August 28th on San Carlos Apache Tribe lands between Calva and Bylas in northwest Graham County. The fire spread through salt cedar by strong winds and burned around 1000 acres before becoming contained August 31st.
• Heat in Louisiana, August 29 to 31, 20201 death · 11 eventsWithin a couple of days in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, very hot and humid conditions lingered across North Louisiana from August 29th-31st, as afternoon temperatures climbed into the lower to mid 90s each day.
• Excessive Heat in Texas, August 29, 202013 eventsTwo days in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, very hot and humid conditions lingered across Northeast Texas through August 29th, with compressional warming ahead of a weak cool front contributing to afternoon temperatures climbing into the upper 90s to near 100 degrees.
• Excessive Heat in Arkansas, August 29, 20207 eventsTwo days in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura, very hot and humid conditions lingered across Southwest Arkansas through August 29th, with compressional warming ahead of a weak cool front contributing to afternoon temperatures climbing into the mid and upper 90s.
• Heat in Arkansas, August 29, 202010 eventsTropical moisture leftover from the remnants of Hurricane Laura combined with late summer sunshine to produce heat index values of 105 degrees or greater across much of the Mid-South.
• Excessive Heat in Oklahoma, August 29, 20209 eventsA ridge of high pressure over the southern United States late in the month, set the stage for excessive heat across portions of eastern Oklahoma.
• Heat in Mississippi, August 29, 20207 eventsTropical moisture leftover from the remnants of Hurricane Laura combined with late summer sunshine to produce heat index values of 105 degrees or greater across much of the Mid-South.
• Heat in Texas, August 31, 202016 eventsSoutherly winds returned to East Texas on August 31st, in wake of a weak surface front that moved through the area during the early morning hours on August 30th, which filtered slightly cooler and drier air to the region.
• Drought in Maine, September 1 to 30, 2020$9.0 million · 18 eventsDry conditions developed rapidly across western Maine starting in the middle of May. The period May 16 to June 25 was exceedingly dry. There was some relief in late June and July, especially in the Western Maine Mountains and parts of the Mid-Coast. Southern Maine.
• Drought in New Hampshire, September 1 to 30, 202015 eventsDry conditions developed rapidly across New Hampshire starting in the middle of May. The period May 16 to June 25 was exceedingly dry.
• Drought in Maine, September 1 to 30, 202010 eventsThe unusually dry conditions which initiatlly developed from late May to early June persisted during September. Thus...areas in severe drought at the end of August generally remained in severe drought through September.
• Drought in Iowa, September 1 to 30, 2020$567,000 · 9 eventsPrecipitation continued well-below normal across northwest Iowa, varying from 10 to 25 percent of normal in the far northwest corner, to around 50 percent of normal toward Ida Grove and Storm Lake. Temperatures were mainly near to slightly below normal.
• Drought in South Dakota, September 1 to 30, 2020$102,000 · 2 eventsPrecipitation continued well-below normal across southeast South Dakota, varying from 10 to 25 percent of normal. Temperatures were mainly near to slightly below normal.
• Heat in Texas, September 1, 202030 eventsHot temperatures at the end of August extended into the first day of September. A Heat Advisory was in effect for the region, but parts of it were cancelled during the day due to thunderstorm outflow winds.
• Drought in Iowa, September 1 to 30, 202019 eventsSevere to extreme drought conditions existed across the area in early September but widespread rainfall from September 8th to the 13th helped to improve conditions slightly. Little rainfall occurred during the remainder of the month with almost no change in drought conditions.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 202015 eventsDrought conditions worsened during the month of September due to a continued lack of widespread beneficial rainfall.
• Drought in Iowa, September 1 to 15, 202013 eventsSevere Drought was widespread in many portions of Iowa in early September after a very dry summer. However, widespread generous rainfall from the 8th to the 13th helped to improve drought conditions one category by mid month, ending the severe drought in these areas.
• Heat in Texas, September 1, 202012 eventsHot and humid conditions continued from the final day in August through the first day of September, with temperatures climbing into the mid and upper 90s across much of East Texas.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 7, 202011 eventsSevere drought conditions were experienced across parts of North and Central Texas but showed signs of improvement by the second week of September.
• Drought in Nebraska, September 1 to 30, 202010 eventsWith continued dry conditions in September, severe and extreme drought conditions expanded across the eastern Nebraska Panhandle and portions of the western Sandhills and southwestern Nebraska in September.
• Drought in Oklahoma, September 1 to 30, 20209 eventsDrought persisted across much of western Oklahoma over the course of September, with little change seen over the previous month.
• Heat in Louisiana, September 1 to 2, 20206 eventsHot and humid conditions continued from the final day in August through the first couple days of September, with temperatures climbing into the lower and mid 90s across North Louisiana.
• Heat in Louisiana, September 1, 20206 eventsHot and humid conditions continued from the final day in August through the first day of September, with temperatures climbing into the mid 90s across Northwest Louisiana.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 20205 eventsAbove normal rainfall during September improved drought conditions across South Central Texas. Dimmit, Edwards, Kinney, Maverick, and Val Verde Counties all recovered to Moderate Drought (D1) or better by the end of the month.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 20205 eventsWhile many places improved in drought conditions leading up to September, a several counties across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandle continued to experience severe drought (D2) conditions while a small area in the southwest Texas Panhandle remained in extreme drought (D3)…
• Drought in Nebraska, September 1 to 30, 20205 eventsAlthough most of South Central Nebraska experienced a dry August-September, September marked the fourth consecutive month of below normal rainfall within a relatively-focused zone through the heart of the 24-county area. As a result, the U.S.
• Heat in Louisiana, September 1 to 5, 20204 eventsHot and humid conditions continued from the final day in August through the first several days of September, with temperatures climbing into the lower and mid 90s across North-central Louisiana.
• Drought in Missouri, September 1 to 30, 20209 eventsLittle rain fell in September, further impacting the drought that began in August. The 30/60/90 Day precipitation amounts continued to decline with Severe (D2) drought expanding across portions of the Ozarks.
• Drought in New Mexico, September 1 to 30, 202037 eventsDrought conditions across northern and central New Mexico continued to deteriorate during the month of September 2020.
• Drought in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 202021 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Colorado during the month of September.
• Drought in Arizona, September 1 to 30, 20208 eventsThe extreme drought (D3) category, which began in late August, continued throughout September across the same sections of southeast Arizona from Tucson north and east, and expanded southward to encompass all of Graham and Greenlee counties along with all but the southwest…
• Drought in Utah, September 1 to 30, 20207 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Utah during the month of September. As a result, drought conditions persisted across the entirety of eastern Utah and worsened to the exceptional category in some areas by the end of the month.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 20203 eventsVery little rainfall during the monsoon season increased the coverage of Severe(D2) drought conditions for much of Hudspeth county.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 2020$27 million · 1 eventMainly dry fast moving thunderstorms moved north across portions of northwest California during August 16th and 17th. Several fires were ignited due to lightning.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 202015 injured · 1 eventThe lightning caused Castle fire was discovered on the morning of August 19, 2020. It was located 25 miles north of Kernville on the Sequoia National Forest and just a few miles east of the Giant Sequoia National Monument.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20206 eventsContinued periods of gusty offshore winds, dry conditions, and hot to record breaking temperatures allowed the August lightning fires to burn throughout the month of September.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20204 eventsFor the month of September wildfires continued to burn across northern California. The August Complex is the largest fire in California history, and is spread across the county warning areas of weather forecast offices Sacramento and Eureka.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Montana, September 1 to 10, 202062 kt wind · 8 eventsWith lower pressure toward the northeast and higher pressure toward the southwest, persistent surface winds from the west and northwest spread across the region.
• Excessive Heat in North Carolina, September 2, 20204 eventsIntense heat and humidity combined to produce heat index values of 110 degrees or higher during the afternoon hours of September 2nd and 3rd.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, September 2 to 7, 202015 deaths · 33 eventsAn anomalously strong and expansive area of high pressure centered near the Four Corners allowed temperatures to climb up to 115 degrees, leading to excessive heat conditions. Record highs were broken in Phoenix on the 4th (114 degrees), 5th (115 degrees), and 6th (113 degrees).
• Excessive Heat in North Carolina, September 3, 20209 eventsIntense heat and humidity combined to produce heat index values of 110 degrees or higher during the afternoon hours of September 2nd and 3rd.
• Excessive Heat and Wildfire in California, September 4 to 30, 20201 death · 90 injured · 7 eventsA very strong upper level high pressure became positioned over California along with an offshore flow in Southern California resulting in record very hot temperatures. September 5th and 6th were the hottest and several all-time highs were broken.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in Arizona, September 4 to 7, 20205 deaths · 8 eventsVery hot temperatures were experienced in the lower elevations of southeast Arizona from September 4th-7th. Many locations approached or exceeded 110 degrees and set new daily record high temperatures.
• Excessive Heat in California, September 4 to 7, 20201 death · 11 eventsA strong and expansive area of high pressure led to excessive heat conditions across southeast California during the Labor Day weekend. Temperatures during this period of excessive heat reached upwards of around 115-120 degrees across the region.
• Excessive Heat in California, September 4 to 7, 20201 death · 1 eventDuring early September, from the 4th through the 7th, southeast California experienced some of its hottest temperatures of the prolific 2020 heat season. This excessive heat episode lined up with the Labor Day holiday weekend.
• Excessive Heat and Heat in California, September 4 to 7, 202018 eventsA large high pressure center that was centered over the four corners region strengthened on September 4 and brought near record high temperatures to eastern Kern County.
• Excessive Heat in California, September 4 to 7, 20207 eventsStrong high pressure over the Mojave Desert produced yet another heat wave. Several temperature records were broken, including some records for the month of September.
• Excessive Heat in Nevada, September 4 to 7, 20206 eventsStrong high pressure over the Mojave Desert produced yet another heat wave. Several temperature records were broken, including some records for the month of September.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, September 4 to 7, 20204 eventsStrong high pressure over the Mojave Desert produced yet another heat wave. Several temperature records were broken, including some records for the month of September.
• Heat in Idaho, September 5, 20204 eventsAll time high month of September temperatures were set in Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Challis, and Burley.
• Heat in Wyoming, September 5, 20206 eventsA abnormally strong ridge and dry soil brought record heat to western and central Wyoming. Many areas saw record high temperatures, with a few stations reaching 100 degrees.
• Excessive Heat and Rip Current in California, September 6 to 9, 202011 eventsA large area of high pressure over the west brought excessive heat and dry conditions to the region. Numerous record high temperatures were broken with 13 broken records on Sunday the 6th alone including records set that weekend for the month of September.
• Wildfire and Dust Storm in Washington, September 7 to 28, 20201 death · 2 injured · $15 million · 18 eventsVery dry and critical fire conditions over Eastern Washington during July and August produced dry fuels across the region. These fuels, with an incoming cold front's strong winds, created an outbreak of wildfires, blowing smoke, and dust late September 6th - 7th.
• Wildfire and Strong Wind in Washington, September 7 to 19, 2020$140,000 · 6 eventsAround Labor Day and through the first full week of September, an anomalous upper level ridge set up over the Northwest US, with a thermal trough developing along the Pacific Northwest Coast with high pressure east of the Cascades at the surface.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Idaho, September 7 to 8, 2020$2.6 million · 56 kt wind · 3 eventsUnseasonably cold air spilled into the region resulting in strong northeast winds.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 7 to 30, 20207 deaths · 38 injured · 11 eventsAfter a period of upper level ridging brought a return to above normal temperatures in early September, very strong easterly downslope and offshore winds off the Cascades and Coastal Ranges occurred.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 7 to 12, 2020$600,000 · 2 eventsThe Hunter 2 Fire began on August 7th, half a mile northeast of Blanchard, due to an unknown cause. The fire burned 684 acres due to high winds, with numerous road closures, evacuations, and destroyed four homes. The wildfire was fully contained on September 12th.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, September 7 to 9, 202016 deaths · $270,000 · 57 kt wind · 6 eventsSeptember started off extremely hot, as high pressure built over the area. This led to unseasonably hot temperatures for most of northern California with widespread triple digit heat forecast, accompanied by little overnight relief for the Labor Day weekend.
• Drought in Iowa, September 8 to 30, 2020$1.7 million · 2 eventsPrecipitation continued well-below normal across northwest Iowa, varying from 10 to 25 percent of normal in the far northwest corner, to around 50 percent of normal toward Ida Grove and Storm Lake. Temperatures were mainly near to slightly below normal.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 8 to 15, 20203 deaths · $10 million · 1 eventThe Almeda Drive Wildfire started on 09/08/20 in the morning. The cause is under investigation. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 09/15/20, the fire had burned 3200 acres and was 100 percent contained. This fire burned in a greenway and an adjacent urban area.
• Drought in South Dakota, September 15 to 30, 2020$1.5 million · 3 eventsPrecipitation continued well-below normal, varying from 10 to 25 percent of normal, across southeast South Dakota. Temperatures were mainly near normal.
• Drought in Minnesota, September 15 to 30, 2020$825,000 · 1 eventPrecipitation continued well-below normal across southwest Minnesota, varying from 10 to 25 percent of normal. Temperatures were mainly near to slightly below normal.
• Excessive Heat in California, September 17 to 18, 20207 eventsA mid-level ridge of high pressure over the southwestern part of the country brought a two-day heat wave to parts of Southern California with record breaking temperatures.
• Excessive Heat in Arizona, September 17, 202011 eventsStrong high pressure over the Desert Southwest led to excessive heat conditions on the 17th. A record high temperature of 109 degrees was set in Phoenix on this date. No heat-associated fatalities were reported by the Maricopa County Department of Health during this event.
• Heat in Arizona, September 20, 20201 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced on September 20th with high temperatures around 100 degrees in eastern Pima County. The Pima County Medical Examiner confirmed that heat was the primary cause of death for one male found in the desert near Sahuarita.
• Drought in Maine, September 22 to 30, 20204 eventsSevere drought expanded across portions of central and southern Penobscot county...along with Hancock county...during September.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, September 22 to 30, 20209 eventsDrought conditions were observed across a wide area of central Pennsylvania in September. According to the United States Drought Monitor, by months end portions of 9 counties were experiencing severe drought conditions.
• Drought in New Mexico, September 22 to 30, 20204 eventsDrought conditions worsened and spread west across northern Otero County with a very dry monsoon season continuing.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 25 to 26, 2020$30,000 · 1 eventA wildfire began, most likely from human causes, 4 miles north of Wolcott.
• Wildfire and Strong Wind in California, September 26 to 30, 20204 deaths · 1 injured · $67,000 · 3 eventsAnother round of critical fire weather conditions occurred from September 26 through September 28 due to a trough sliding into the Rockies and ridge building behind it.
• Wildfire and Rip Current in California, September 27 to 30, 20206 eventsDry gusty offshore winds as well as strengthening high pressure enabled the generation and rapid spread of the Glass Fire across Napa and Sonoma counties at the end of September.
• Heat in Arizona, September 28 to 29, 20202 deaths · 2 eventsHigh pressure over the western United States allowed for high temperatures to top out nearly 10 degrees above normal at the end of the month. According to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, two heat-associated fatalities occurred during this time.
• Drought in California, September 29 to 30, 20205 eventsNorthern California typically experiences a wet season, October through May, and a dry season May through September. This water year, starting October 2019 through September 2020, was one of the driest on records. This likely contributed to the U.S.
• Excessive Heat and Wildfire in California, September 29 to 30, 20205 eventsA ridging pattern remained locked in place across the Desert Southwest during this time period, producing a long lasting heat wave from September 29th to October 5th.
• Heat in Arizona, September 29, 20202 deaths · 2 eventsHot temperatures were experienced on September 29th with high temperatures around 100 degrees in southeastern Pima County.
• Drought in Maine, October 1 to 31, 2020$9.0 million · 18 eventsDry conditions developed rapidly across western Maine starting in the middle of May. The period May 16 to June 25 was exceedingly dry. There was some relief in late June and July, especially in the Western Maine Mountains and parts of the Mid-Coast. Southern Maine.
• Drought in New Hampshire, October 1 to 31, 2020$9.0 million · 15 eventsDry conditions developed rapidly across New Hampshire starting in the middle of May. The period May 16 to June 25 was exceedingly dry.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, October 1 to 31, 202014 eventsSevere drought conditions were observed across a wide area of central Pennsylvania through the month of October 2020. The counties impacted were: Potter, Tioga, Cameron, McKean, Clinton, Lycoming, Clearfield, Centre, Huntingdon, Blair and Union.
• Drought in Maine, October 1 to 19, 202011 eventsA change in the pattern led to more frequent rain events across much of northern and eastern Maine during October. The change in pattern developed early in the month and persisted through the month.
• Drought in Iowa, October 1 to 31, 2020$747,000 · 10 eventsPrecipitation continued below normal across northwest Iowa, varying from 50 to 75 percent of normal. Temperatures were well-below normal.
• Drought in South Dakota, October 1 to 31, 2020$143,000 · 5 eventsPrecipitation continued below normal across southeast South Dakota, varying from 25 to 50 percent of normal. Temperatures were well-below normal.
• Drought in Minnesota, October 1 to 31, 2020$100,000 · 1 eventPrecipitation continued below normal across southwest Minnesota, varying from 50 to 75 percent of normal. Temperatures were well-below normal.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 31, 202016 eventsDrought conditions remained relatively unchanged through the month. However, most of the month was dry except for the last few days when a significant winter storm affected the region.
• Drought in Missouri, October 1 to 31, 202014 eventsDry conditions continued through much of the month of October, continuing the drought conditions which began in August. The 30/60/90 Day precipitation amounts continued to decline with Severe (D2) and Extreme (D3) drought developing or expanding across portions of the Ozarks.
• Drought in Iowa, October 1 to 31, 202014 eventsSevere drought conditions remained across much of western Iowa with rainfall remaining generally at or below normal for the month. Some relief did occur in terms of cooler weather thus limiting overall evaporation rates.
• Drought in Nebraska, October 1 to 31, 202013 eventsExtreme and severe drought conditions expanded into additional areas across western and north central Nebraska in October.
• Drought in Oklahoma, October 1 to 31, 202010 eventsSevere to extreme drought persisted across much of western Oklahoma, expanding slightly towards the end of the month.
• Drought in Nebraska, October 1 to 31, 20209 eventsFor the majority of the 24-county South Central Nebraska area, October marked at least the third-consecutive month of below normal precipitation. However, for a relatively-focused zone within the heart of the area this was actually the fifth-straight dry month.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 31, 20207 eventsMost of South Central Texas received less than 0.5 in. of rain in October which is 5% or less of normal.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 31, 20205 eventsAreas across the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles saw drought conditions worsening going into the month of October as September was very dry.
• Drought in Iowa, October 1 to 27, 20204 eventsDrought conditions persisted through much of October in portions of central Iowa. However, rainfall during the month was enough to improve conditions out of severe drought.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 31, 2020$92 million · 1 eventIn the month of October, the Cameron Peak wildfire more than doubled its size. The first half of October could be characterized as unseasonably warm, dry and windy. These conditions allowed the fire to explode from 102,075 acres on the 1st, to 208,663 acres by the 31st.
• Drought in New Mexico, October 1 to 31, 202040 eventsDrought conditions across northern and central New Mexico continued to worsen during the month of October 2020. October saw below normal precipitation across the entire area with extreme to exceptional drought worsening to about 67 percent of the state.
• Drought in Colorado, October 1 to 31, 202021 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Colorado during the month of October.
• Drought in New Mexico, October 1 to 31, 202015 eventsVery dry conditions continued through October which kept most areas in Severe(D2) to Exceptional(D4) drought.
• Drought in Arizona, October 1 to 31, 202010 eventsThe extreme drought (D3) category, which began in late August and expanded in September, expanded further in October to include all of the Tohono O'odham Nation and all of Santa Cruz and Cochise counties, except for the Huachuca Mountains.
• Drought in Utah, October 1 to 31, 20207 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Utah during the month of October. As a result, drought conditions persisted across the entirety of eastern Utah.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 31, 20205 eventsAnother dry month saw no change in the drought conditions for Far West Texas with most of the area in Severe(D2) drought.
• Drought in Montana, October 1 to 31, 20205 eventsThe recently persistent multi-seasonal weather pattern has kept most storm systems away from the northeast corner of Montana. Severe drought (D-2) conditions crept into this area from the east, with the official Drought Monitor update released on October 1st.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 1 to 31, 20209 eventsWith the help of cooler and wetter weather, fire suppression activities continued through October.
• Drought in California, October 1 to 31, 20205 eventsNorthern California typically experiences a wet season, October through May, and a dry season May through September. Last year's water year, October 2019 through September 2020, was one of the driest on records. This likely contributed to the U.S.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 31, 20204 eventsFor the month of October, numerous wildfires that started in September 2020, continued to burn across northern California.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 31, 20203 eventsThe Creek fire started at 633 pm PDT on September 4th (Labor Day Weekend) in the vicinity of Big Creek, California near the town of Shaver Lake. The fire was in an area of very heavy tree mortality in the Sierra National Forest.
• Drought in Hawaii, October 1 to 31, 202013 eventsPortions of seven islands - Niihau, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, Kahoolawe, and the Big Island - remained dry through October.
• Heat in Arizona, October 1 to 6, 20202 deaths · 2 eventsStrong high pressure over the western United States allowed for high temperatures to climb well above normal in Phoenix during the beginning of October.
• Wildfire in Nevada, October 3 to 8, 2020$100,000 · 2 eventsOctober was dry and warm, with much of the area reporting no measurable precipitation during the month.
• Heat in Nevada, October 5, 20201 death · 1 eventA toddler died in Las Vegas when she was accidentally locked in a car on a hot day.
• Drought in South Dakota, October 6 to 31, 2020$1.7 million · 5 eventsPrecipitation continued well-below normal across southeast South Dakota, varying from 25 to 50 percent of normal. Temperatures were well-below normal.
• Drought in Minnesota, October 6 to 13, 2020$940,000 · 1 eventPrecipitation continued below normal across southwest Minnesota, varying from 50 to 75 percent of normal. Temperatures were well-below normal.
• Drought in Nebraska, October 6 to 31, 2020$275,000 · 2 eventsPrecipitation continued below normal across northeast Nebraska, varying from 50 to 75 percent of normal. Temperatures were well-below normal.
• Drought in Iowa, October 6 to 31, 2020$47,000 · 1 eventPrecipitation continued below normal across northwest Iowa, varying from 50 to 75 percent of normal. Temperatures were well-below normal.
• Drought in Nebraska, October 6 to 31, 20208 eventsFor the majority of the 24-county South Central Nebraska area, October marked at least the third-consecutive month of below normal precipitation. However, for a relatively-focused zone within the heart of the area this was actually the fifth-straight dry month.
• Drought in Iowa, October 6 to 31, 20205 eventsContinued dryness during the fall, mainly in the western half of the state, led to worsening drought conditions in portions of western Iowa.
• Drought in Arizona, October 6 to 31, 20204 eventsThe extreme drought (D3) category, which began in late August and expanded in September, expanded further in October to include all of the Tohono O'odham Nation and all of Santa Cruz and Cochise counties, except for the Huachuca Mountains.
• Heat in Arizona, October 6, 20201 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced on October 6th with high temperatures just over 100 degrees in central Pima County.
• Wildfire in Iowa, October 11, 2020$320,000 · 1 eventDrought conditions worsened early in the month due to very warm temperatures and lack of precipitation.
• Wildfire and Dust Storm in Kansas, October 11, 2020$1.5 million · 70 kt wind · 22 eventsA strong southeastward cold front produced high wind gusts ranging from 27 to 81 mph. These high winds lasted for various durations of time, ranging from six minutes to one hour and fifty minutes after frontal passage.
• Excessive Heat and Dense Fog in California, October 12 to 18, 20206 eventsA surface area of high pressure situated over the Great Basin brought very warm conditions with gusty Santa Ana winds across the region, along with patchy dense fog nights and mornings over the coastal areas.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 14 to 31, 20202 deaths · $167 million · 1 eventThe East Troublesome Fire started on the afternoon of October 14th and continued through the end of the month; iIt became the second largest wildfire in Colorado to date, and one of the most destructive.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 17 to 31, 2020$37 million · 1 eventA fast moving wildfire developed in the foothills of Boulder County. The Cal-Wood Fire started near Jamestown and quickly spread eastward through the foothills of Boulder County.
• Drought in Texas, October 20 to 31, 20205 eventsAreas across the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles saw drought conditioned worsening going into the month of October as September was very dry.
• Heat in Arizona, October 20, 20201 death · 1 eventHot temperatures were experienced on October 20th with high temperatures in the middle to upper 90s in central Pima County.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, October 26 to 31, 20202 injured · 73 kt wind · 4 eventsA strong Santa Ana wind event occurred across the region, producing damaging winds and the spread of two wildfires. The Blue Ridge and Silverado wildfires threatened many properties and closed down state routes and freeways for a time as well.
• Drought in New Hampshire, November 1 to 30, 2020$54 million · 6 eventsDry conditions developed rapidly across New Hampshire starting in the middle of May. The period May 16 to June 25 was exceedingly dry.
• Drought in Maine, November 1 to 30, 2020$840,000 · 7 eventsDry conditions developed rapidly across western Maine starting in the middle of May. The period May 16 to June 25 was exceedingly dry. There was some relief in late June and July, especially in the Western Maine Mountains and parts of the Mid-Coast. Southern Maine.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, November 1 to 30, 202010 eventsSevere drought conditions were observed across a wide area of central Pennsylvania through the month of November 2020. The counties impacted were: Potter, Tioga, McKean, Clinton, Lycoming, Centre, and Union.
• Drought in Iowa, November 1 to 30, 2020$655,000 · 11 eventsA lack of significant precipitation as the agricultural season ended maintained severe to extreme drought conditions.
• Drought in South Dakota, November 1 to 30, 2020$241,000 · 10 eventsA lack of significant precipitation as the agricultural season ended maintained severe to extreme drought conditions.
• Drought in Nebraska, November 1 to 30, 2020$38,000 · 2 eventsA lack of significant precipitation as the agricultural season ended maintained severe drought conditions.
• Drought in Texas, November 1 to 30, 202026 eventsNovember was another month of mostly below normal rainfall across South Central Texas. Most of the northern half of the area had less than 50% of normal with some places in the northwest having less than 10%. In most of our counties the drought worsened during the month.
• Drought in Nebraska, November 1 to 30, 202018 eventsDuring November, 18 of the 24 counties in South Central Nebraska were completely-or-partially included in D2-or-worse drought, per weekly issuances of the U.S. Drought Monitor.
• Drought in Texas, November 1 to 30, 202015 eventsDrought conditions remained relatively steady through the month. Both Briscoe and Motley Counties showed slight improvement while Crosby County worsened.
• Drought in Nebraska, November 1 to 30, 202014 eventsAcross western and north central Nebrasaka in November, precipitation was below normal for the month of November. Conditions were driest in the eastern Nebraska Panhandle, western Sandhills, and southwestern Nebraska.
• Drought in Iowa, November 1 to 30, 202013 eventsDrought conditions persisted across portions of western Iowa during the month. There was some generous rainfall but long term dryness allowed the severe drought conditions to continue.
• Drought in Texas, November 1 to 30, 202013 eventsThe month of November featured an extended period of dry weather, above normal temperatures and well below normal rainfall. According to the U.S.
• Drought in Minnesota, November 1 to 30, 2020$14,000 · 1 eventA lack of significant precipitation as the agricultural season ended maintained severe drought conditions.
• Drought in Oklahoma, November 1 to 30, 20208 eventsDrought expanded slightly through the month, with portions of western Oklahoma entering severe drought conditions.
• Drought in Iowa, November 1 to 10, 20206 eventsGenerous rainfall at times through November helped to improve severe drought conditions across portions of western and central Iowa.
• Drought in Kansas, November 1 to 30, 20206 eventsNear normal to below normal precipitation amounts occurred for Northwest Kansas during November. Precipitation amounts ranged from 0-0.50. Normal precipitation amounts for November range from 0.25-1. The D2 Severe Drought level expanded slightly further east.
• Drought in Texas, November 1 to 30, 20204 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought conditions continued, especially in the southwest Texas Panhandle and western Oklahoma Panhandle. Severe drought was prominent in the south to southeastern Texas Panhandle.
• Drought in New Mexico, November 1 to 30, 202041 eventsDrought conditions across northern and central New Mexico continued to worsen during the month of November 2020. November saw below normal precipitation across the entire area with extreme to exceptional drought worsening to about 79 percent of the state.
• Drought in Colorado, November 1 to 30, 202021 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Colorado during the month of November.
• Drought in New Mexico, November 1 to 30, 202015 eventsContinued very dry conditions across the region lead to severe to exceptional drought conditions to expand and worsen over southern New Mexico during the month of November.
• Drought in Arizona, November 1 to 30, 202014 eventsThe exceptional drought (D4) category, which began in eastern portions of Pima and Pinal counties and western Graham County in October, expanded across all of Graham and Greenlee counties, northern Cochise and Santa Cruz counties and central Pima County during November.
• Drought in Utah, November 1 to 30, 20207 eventsTemperatures were above normal and precipitation was below normal across much of Utah during the month of November. As a result, drought conditions persisted across the entirety of eastern Utah and worsened to the exceptional category in some areas by the end of the month.
• Drought in Montana, November 1 to 30, 20206 eventsThe seasonal weather pattern continued to steer most precipitation away from the northeast corner and the eastern edge of Montana. The area of drought (D-2 Severe) conditions persisted and expanded toward the south and southeast across the region throughout the month of November.
• Drought in Texas, November 1 to 30, 20205 eventsVery little precipitation in the month of November lead to expanding severe and even extreme drought conditions into far west Texas.
• Drought in California, November 1 to 30, 20205 eventsNorthern California typically experiences a wet season, October through May, and a dry season May through September. Last year's water year, October 2019 through September 2020, was one of the driest on records. This likely contributed to the U.S.
• Wildfire in Oregon, November 1 to 30, 20205 eventsWith the help of cooler and wetter weather, fire suppression activities continued through November.
• Drought in Hawaii, November 1 to 30, 202010 eventsSevere to extreme drought, D2 to D3 categories, continued over portions of Molokai, Maui, Lanai, Kahoolawe, and the Big Island through November.
• Drought in South Dakota, November 5 to 30, 2020$189,000 · 3 eventsPrecipitation measured only 25 to 50 percent of normal during the period from September through November across southeast South Dakota and resulted in the expansion of severe drought conditions.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Kansas, November 7 to 8, 202052 kt wind · 4 eventsStrong to high winds occurred over portions of Cheyenne, Sheridan, and Graham counties as a trough moved slowly across eastern Colorado into western Kansas.
• Drought in Texas, November 10 to 30, 202015 eventsAfter a period of below normal rainfall during October into early November, severe drought conditions developed over portions of the coastal plains and the western Brush Country.
• Drought in Texas, November 17 to 30, 20206 eventsSevere drought conditions expanded west and east in Central Texas and developed across parts of North Texas.
• Drought in Kansas, November 17 to 30, 20204 eventsNear normal to below normal precipitation amounts occurred for Northwest Kansas during November. Precipitation amounts ranged from 0-0.50. Normal precipitation amounts for November range from 0.50-1. The D2 Severe Drought level expanded slightly further east.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, November 17 to 18, 20201 death · 80 kt wind · 6 eventsPowerful Pacific jet stream, rain shadowing, and mountain waves yielded some of the highest winds the region has seen in a few years. Still dry vegetation and high winds contributed to several major wildfires near Reno, NV and Walker, CA.
• Wildfire and Heavy Snow in Nevada, November 17 to 18, 20203 injured · 81 kt wind · 7 eventsPowerful Pacific jet stream, rain shadowing, and mountain waves yielded some of the highest winds the region has seen in a few years. Still dry vegetation and high winds contributed to several major wildfires near Reno, NV and Walker, CA.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, November 22 to 27, 20201 injured · 69 kt wind · 7 eventsA mid-level area of low pressure swung its way across the southwestern U.S., which brought damaging winds and very dry conditions to portions of Southern California. Some places along the coast also saw dense fog.
• Drought in New Hampshire, December 1 to 22, 20205 eventsThe flash drought that began in mid-May and lasted through the summer months continued to improve through the fall.
• Drought in Texas, December 1 to 31, 202027 eventsThe drought continued over most of South Central Texas in December. Most of the area had less than normal precipitation during the month.
• Drought in Nebraska, December 1 to 31, 202018 eventsDuring December, 20 of the 24 counties in South Central Nebraska were either completely or partially-included in Severe Drought (D2)-or-worse, per weekly issuances of the U.S. Drought Monitor.
• Drought in Texas, December 1 to 31, 202017 eventsLack of rainfall has caused the drought to continue to expand and worsen in December. According to the Texas Ag Report from Agrilife, small-grain growth slowed due to drought, and insect pests increased. Livestock looked fair to poor due to the lack of grazing.
• Drought in Nebraska, December 1 to 31, 202014 eventsDrought conditions remained unchanged across western and north central Nebraska in December. Precipitation was below normal in the eastern Nebraska Panhandle and portions of far southwestern Nebraska.
• Drought in Texas, December 1 to 31, 202014 eventsDrought conditions made a slight improvement through the month of December, mostly thanks to a three-day winter storm in the last few days of December.
• Drought in South Dakota, December 1 to 31, 202013 eventsLack of significant precipitation maintained drought status during December.
• Drought in Iowa, December 1 to 31, 202013 eventsLonger term drought persisted in portions of western Iowa into December. Little change was observed in the areal coverage as much of the state had become hydrologically inactive with regards to the ground as winter settled in across Iowa.
• Drought in Kansas, December 1 to 31, 202012 eventsDespite near to slightly above normal precipitation occurring over Northwest Kansas, the D2 Severe to D3 Extreme Drought status did not change for December. Precipitation amounts ranged from 0.25 to 1 which is near normal for December.
• Drought in Iowa, December 1 to 31, 202011 eventsLack of significant precipitation maintained drought status during December.
• Drought in Texas, December 1 to 31, 202010 eventsSevere drought conditions impacted several areas across North and Central Texas throughout the month of December. Extreme drought conditions developed in a few areas across Central Texas towards the middle to end of the month.
• Drought in Texas, December 1 to 31, 20209 eventsBelow normal rainfall occurred across most of south Texas during the month of December, except for the immediate coastal region where above normal rainfall occurred.
• Drought in Oklahoma, December 1 to 31, 20208 eventsDrought area and intensity remained fairly steady over the course of the month, with severe drought persisting across mainly southwestern OK.
• Drought in Texas, December 1 to 31, 20207 eventsMuch of the western Oklahoma Panhandle and south to southeastern Texas Panhandle remained in severe to exceptional drought conditions through the month of December.
• Drought in New Mexico, December 1 to 31, 202041 eventsDrought conditions across northern and central New Mexico continued to worsen during the month of December 2020. December once again saw below normal precipitation across the entire area with extreme to exceptional drought worsening to about 82 percent of the state.
• Drought in Colorado, December 1 to 31, 202021 eventsEven though average temperatures were below normal across much of western Colorado during the month of December, precipitation was still below normal.
• Drought in New Mexico, December 1 to 31, 202017 eventsBesides one precipitation event in early December, little moisture fell during the month. All climate locations reported below normal precipitation which kept all areas in severe to exceptional drought.
• Drought in Arizona, December 1 to 31, 202014 eventsThe exceptional (D4) and extreme (D3) drought categories continued across a large part of southeast Arizona during December, with the exception of western Pima County.
• Drought in Texas, December 1 to 31, 20207 eventsLittle to no precipitation in the month of December lead to some areas of exceptional drought to move into eastern Hudspeth County. The remainder of far west Texas remained in severe to extreme drought.
• Drought in Utah, December 1 to 31, 20207 eventsEven though average temperatures were below normal across much of eastern Utah during the month of December, precipitation was still below normal.
• Drought in Montana, December 1 to 31, 20205 eventsThe seasonal weather pattern continued to steer most precipitation away from the northeast corner and the eastern edge of Montana through the month. For some locations, severe drought conditions retreated slightly eastward (Daniels and northern Valley Counties).
• Wildfire in Oregon, December 1 to 31, 20208 eventsWith the help of cooler and wetter weather, fire suppression activities continued through December.
• Drought in California, December 1 to 31, 20205 eventsNorthern California typically experiences a wet season, October through May, and a dry season May through September. Last year's water year, October 2019 through September 2020, was one of the driest on records. This likely contributed to the U.S.
• Drought in Hawaii, December 1 to 31, 202010 eventsDry conditions persisted over parts of Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and the Big Island, and over all of Kahoolawe. All of these areas were either at D2 level of severe, or D3 level of extreme, drought.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, December 1 to 12, 20202 injured · $1.0 million · 83 kt wind · 10 eventsA strong mid-level trough protruded into the Desert Southwest, which led to strong Santa Ana winds and very dry weather conditions. This led to destructive wildfires and damaging winds across Southern California starting December 2nd and beyond.
• Drought in Texas, December 15 to 21, 20208 eventsEven while a series of cold fronts moved through Deep South Texas early December and lowered the temperatures, these were primarily dry frontal passages, with the majority of the rainfall confined to the coastal counties and offshore, continuing to leave the western counties…
• Drought in Texas, December 15 to 31, 20205 eventsSevere drought conditions across Central Texas expanded north as the month progressed.
• Drought in Texas, December 22 to 28, 20207 eventsAn active pattern across the Rio Grande Valley/Deep South Texas region continued to bring cold fronts through the month of December. Afternoon temperatures between fronts were generally above normal. Overnight lows through the month were near to below normal.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, December 26 to 28, 2020$266,000 · 1 eventA wind-whipped fire in leeward West Maui near Olowalu charred more than 750 acres of mainly dry brush, although the blaze also destroyed the Olowalu Community Center, several vehicles and storage units, and partially damaged a residence on Luawau Street.

Every billion-dollar disasterEvery storm of 2020Tornadoes in 2020

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.