Oregon is finally drought free despite recent rainfall gaps
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — After years of drought concerns across the state, Oregon is officially drought-free, and has been since mid-March this year. It's a welcomed sight as we move through spring time and await the hotter and more wildfire prone months of the year.
The latest data from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows that no part of Oregon is experiencing drought or abnormally dry conditions. The last time Oregon was completely drought-free was back in the fall of 2019.
Historical drought data from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows some of the worst drought experienced in Oregon began in the summer of 2020 and lasted through 2023.
Our current water year, which began in October 2024, brought a mix of weather patterns with some months wetter than usual, and other falling short. Rain totals so far this water year amount to 29.07 inches, with a deficit of 0.41 inches.
Despite the drier stretches in October, January, and now April, the rainy season was productive enough eliminate drought across the state. Little to no drought is also the case for much of Washington and northern California.
Abundant snowpack this winter has also helped to support water resources across the state. Snowpack levels remain well above-normal for the majority of Oregon's basins at this point of the year.
April's dry and quiet weather pattern has brought great weather for outdoor plans, but is also a sign that the rainy season is tapering down. Still, if current trends continue, Oregon could enter the drier summer season in better shape than in recent years.
The KOIN 6 Weather Team will keep a close eye on conditions as the fire season approaches.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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