Oklahoma drought nearing its worst since 2012

TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — Drought conditions across Oklahoma continue to get worse due to several months with below average rainfall.

A mid-October update released by the U.S. Drought Monitor showed the categories of severe drought and higher are approaching the same coverage area as 2012.

Exceptional drought, the worst category on the scale, has reached 29% of statewide. Most of the exceptional drought is focused in eastern Oklahoma. Extreme drought has passed 2012's level by five percent.

There have been two droughts since 2012 that affected only parts of the state, which were Spring 2014 and Spring 2018.

As of Oct. 14, 2022, Tulsa's yearly deficit was at 7.11 inches below normal. Oklahoma City's deficit was at 10.56 inches below normal.

No substantial rain is in the forecast over the next two weeks. Drier than normal conditions are expected through the fall and early winter due to a climate pattern known as La Niña.

On Monday, Sept. 12, Governor Kevin Stitt issued an executive order to deliver drought relief to farmers in western Oklahoma, and other states affected by the current drought conditions.

On Tuesday, Oct. 4, Governor Stitt signed House Bill 1006 to help Oklahoma farmers and ranchers overcome challenges created by the ongoing drought conditions. The bill appropriates $20 million to the Emergency Drought Relief Fund.

On Tuesday, Oct. 11, Governor Kevin Stitt issued an executive order that temporarily suspends regulations for vehicles transporting bales of hay into the state.