Drought in the West - How Drought Works

Abstract

Author: Brandon McWilliams

This fact sheet offers a general overview of the various types of drought, their effects, and some of the factors that contribute to drought in the West. It offers a good starting point for those who are less familiar with drought and drought effects, or want to learn more about how drought is monitored in the U.S.

Drought
Snowpack
Forecasting
Wildfire
Insects
Invasive Species
Forest and Rangeland Health

Download (PDF 1.87MB)

Download (PDF 1.87MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/sites/default/files/2025-12/pnw-drought_interactions_-_general_-_update_v1.pdf

Drought Snowpack Forecasting Wildfire Insects Invasive Species Forest and Rangeland Health

Last updated December 17, 2025