AEM Report: Western U.S. Drought Nearly Triples in One Year, Threatening Critical Resources and Infrastructure

National Post

10-06-2025

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2025 Summer Weather Outlook Highlights Urgent Need for Action Amid Escalating Water Scarcity, Agricultural Challenges, and Infrastructure Risks
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GERMANTOWN, Md. — The Western United States faces a rapidly worsening drought crisis, with affected areas nearly tripling compared to last year, according to AEM's 2025 Summer Weather Outlook, which was released today. This significant drought expansion raises serious concerns about water availability, agricultural productivity, wildfire threats, and infrastructure stability across the region.
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The report shows Lake Mead and Lake Powell, crucial reservoirs providing water for millions, have reached alarmingly low levels, holding just one-third of their usual capacity. This shortage poses significant challenges to agriculture, urban water supplies, and industries reliant on consistent water availability. In Nebraska, drought conditions have notably impacted agriculture, severely affecting more than half of the state's corn acreage.
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The severe drought conditions are further intensifying wildfire risks, particularly around the July 4th holiday, historically associated with increased wildfire activity. The Outlook indicates that areas such as California, the Great Basin, and the northern Rockies are projected to face above-normal fire potential throughout the summer months, further straining firefighting resources and endangering communities. Canada is also facing extreme fire danger across western provinces, with burned acreage already triple the seasonal average.
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'This summer will bring a dangerous combination of heat, dryness, and fuel buildup that elevates wildfire risks across North America,' said James Aman, Senior Meteorologist at AEM. 'We're already seeing an above-average number of wildfires in the U.S., with similar trends north of the border.'
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Additionally, hotter-than-normal temperatures are expected across the Rockies, Pacific Northwest, and the Upper Midwest, exacerbating drought conditions and placing significant stress on regional electric grids. The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) specifically faces heightened vulnerability due to anticipated peak summer air-conditioning demands, highlighting the critical need for adaptive energy management and infrastructure resilience.
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