After 25 Years, California Records Zero Drought Conditions Statewide
After 25 Years, California Records Zero Drought Conditions Statewide
US · Published Jan 9, 2026
California is drought-free for the first time in 25 years, thanks to heavy rainfall in December and January.
Major reservoirs are at healthy levels, boosting water supplies across the state.
Increased vegetation growth from the rainfall could raise the risk of wildfires in the summer.
California free of drought conditions after 25 years
For the first time in 25 years, California is completely free of drought conditions, according to the latest data from the U.S. Drought Monitor. This remarkable turnaround follows an exceptionally wet December and early January, during which many parts of the state received more than double their normal rainfall. Precipitation totals have reached 155% of the average for the water year to date, significantly boosting water supplies across the region.
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