In October 2024, the U.S. experienced record drought conditions, with 87.16% of the contiguous U.S. in abnormally dry to exceptional drought conditions. Despite Hurricane Helene bringing record wet conditions to the Southeast, October was the second warmest and second driest on record for the nation. Temperatures were above average across much of the country, with some states experiencing their warmest October on record. Alaska also saw near-normal temperatures.
In terms of precipitation, October was the second driest on record for the contiguous U.S., with below-average precipitation and several states experiencing their driest October on record. However, the January-October precipitation total was above average, ranking in the wettest third of the 130-year record. Louisiana ranked 10th wettest for this period.
Drought conditions expanded rapidly in October, with about 54.1% of the contiguous U.S. in drought, the largest four-week expansion on record. Moderate to exceptional drought was widespread in various regions.
Looking ahead, the Climate Prediction Center forecasts above-normal temperatures for much of the eastern U.S. and northern Alaska, with above-normal precipitation in parts of the central Plains and Midwest. Drought improvement is expected in some regions, while drought development is likely in others. The National Interagency Fire Center also predicts above-normal wildfire potential in certain areas during November.
Overall, NOAA provides comprehensive climate services to support informed decision-making, with a detailed U.S. Climate Report for October 2024 scheduled for release on November 14, 2024.
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