In the United States, drought levels have reached record highs for this time of year, raising concerns about the upcoming wildfire season, water supply, and food prices. This is reported by AP News, according to UNN.
Details
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, more than 61% of the continental United States is experiencing moderate to extreme drought. The worst situation is in the southeastern part of the country, where drought has affected 97% of the region, as well as in the western U.S., where about two-thirds of the territories are suffering.
Meteorologists note that this is the highest indicator for this period of the year since relevant observations began in 2000.
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The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also reported that March was the driest on record since 1895 for that month and the third driest overall among all months.
Experts explain the situation by anomalous heat and low snow levels in the west of the country, where snow reserves traditionally provide water in the summer. At the same time, a separate wave of drought has covered the southern U.S. – from Texas to the East Coast.
Experts warn that overcoming the moisture deficit in some areas would require extremely heavy rainfall – for example, eastern Texas needs about 19 inches of rain per month.
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