Flash drought developing across the southern Plains
Posted: Sat, 22 Aug 2026 12:25 PM - 152 Readers
By: KXAN Weather
Flash drought is a rapid onset or intensification of drought driven by below-normal rainfall combined with hotter-than-average temperatures, wind, and strong sunshine. These conditions boost evapotranspiration, quickly pulling moisture from soil and plants even when moisture levels were previously adequate. The National Integrated Drought Information System notes that the Evaporative Demand Drought Index currently shows the atmosphere across the south-central U.S. is primed for this process over the coming week. Flash droughts typically peak in July and August across the central United States; Texas last experienced frequent episodes of this kind during the prolonged 2020–2025 drought.
July 2026 was the hottest month on record for the Lower 48, and August has stayed well above normal across the southern Plains, with most days exceeding 100°F and overnight lows remaining in the mid-to-upper 70s. Texas has seen almost no measurable rain since early August; Austin’s Camp Mabry station has recorded none since July 24. Drought that had eased after mid-July flooding is now rapidly worsening, with moderate drought expanding into several Central Texas counties and abnormally dry conditions spreading widely. Forecasts call for continued triple-digit heat and little rain through at least the next week, with below-normal precipitation and above-average temperatures likely into early September. The same hot, dry pattern is also raising wildfire danger, prompting burn bans across much of the affected region.
