Drought situation not expected to improve anytime soon in parts of the Eastern US

by Jeff Ishee

June 21, 2026 - Drought conditions across the Eastern United States continue to tighten in late June, leaving farmers increasingly concerned as warm weather accelerates crop water demand.

The most recent Drought Monitor Map - Source: US Drought Monitor

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor update shows large portions of the region locked in moderate to severe drought, with a portion of North Carolina now in "exceptional" drought. Some improvement, however, has been seen in recent weeks in parts of the southeast, including Georgia and northeast Florida. Overall, rainfall deficits remain significant.

The new forecast through the end of September. Image Credit - NWS CPC

A large area, including significant parts of Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, Delaware, and southeastern Pennsylvania, is expected to see drought conditions persist at least through the end of September.

In Florida, rainfall totals illustrate the challenge: Jacksonville International Airport has recorded just 0.18 inches of rain in June, far below the normal 2.24 inches. Despite a wetter-than-average May, the area remains roughly 15 inches below normal rainfall over the past year, underscoring long‑term moisture deficits that continue to affect soils and water supplies.

For agriculture, the impacts are mounting.

Dry topsoil conditions in North Carolina are slowing germination in cotton and peanuts, as well as plant viability for other row crops, including corn and soybeans.

Forage losses are becoming a growing concern for livestock producers across the region. In Virginia, many producers are reporting lower hay yields as we head into summer, while pasture conditions statewide are not where they typically are in mid-to-late June. A recent news release for the Virginia Governor's Office states, "a significant lack of precipitation has resulted in Virginia recording its driest period since 1941."