U.S. Drought Conditions Map - Current Intensity Levels by Region #3499328 (License: Personal Use)

The map uses a color-coded scale (D0-D4) to represent drought intensity, where D0 is abnormally dry and D4 is exceptional drought. Heavy red and maroon regions dominate the central plains, southern Rockies, and parts of the Southeast, signaling prolonged water stress. Lighter yellows and oranges in the Pacific Northwest and Northeast suggest milder or improving conditions.

This image is typically used on climate monitoring websites (e.g., NOAA, US Drought Monitor), agricultural portals, and news outlets during drought reporting cycles. It serves users seeking real-time drought awareness for farming, water management, policy decisions, or emergency preparedness.