Almost half of Arizona is experiencing extreme drought conditions

PHOENIX – As Arizona enters the final month of a bone dry winter, almost half the state is experiencing extreme drought conditions.

The U.S. Drought Monitor map for Feb. 11 showed 46.7% of the state, including most of Maricopa County, in the extreme drought range, aka D3.

The figure was just 1.8% at the same time last year and 8.3% three months ago.

According to the Arizona State Climate Office, July 2021 was the last time extreme drought covered more than 46% of the state.

There's been a big change in short-term drought in AZ since the start of Water Year 2025. The last time AZ had Extreme short-term drought cover 46% of the state was July 2021. pic.twitter.com/FkKSqBH4og

— AZ State Climate (@AZStateClimate) February 13, 2025

The U.S. Drought Monitor map is updated every Thursday, indicating levels ranging from D0 (abnormally dry) to D4 (exceptional drought). Extreme drought is one step below the highest level.

Why is so much of Arizona facing extreme drought conditions?

Rain and snow have been scarce in the Grand Canyon State this winter. In fact, Arizona just experienced its driest December-January on record, Arizona State Climate Office Director Erinanne Saffell told KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Arizona’s Morning News on Tuesday.

“That doesn’t bode well for our water supply,” she said.

However, a dry winter doesn’t necessarily mean a dry summer will follow, Saffell explained.

“We just came through two very dry summers, and, statistically, we don’t usually have three dry summers in a row,” she said. “My fingers are crossed that we’re going to have a normal monsoon season, but we’ll have to wait and see.”

In addition, Arizona could get wet outside the usual winter and summer rainy seasons, she noted.

“We can still get it coming in March. Last April, we had some snow, but it’s not likely going to happen as much as we need it to,” she said.

In the meantime, Saffell is encouraging Arizonans to be mindful of their water usage.

“I remember I grew up here in Arizona in the 1970s watching those commercials on the cartoons on Saturday telling us not to let our water run, and I think that’s a good idea,” she said. “Just use a limited amount of water, whatever you need. Be in touch with what you’re doing with your water supply.”

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