Wargo et al. (2026) Observed Decreases in Seasonal Drought across the Northeastern United States

Identification

• Journal: Journal of Hydrometeorology
• Year: 2026
• Date: 2026-08-19
• Authors: Janelle L. Wargo, Jonathan M. Winter, Justin Mankin, Erich C. Osterberg
• DOI: 10.1175/jhm-d-25-0103.1

Research Groups

• Dartmouth College, Department of Earth Sciences
• Northeast Regional Climate Center

Short Summary

This study examines observed decreases in seasonal drought across the Northeastern United States. The research reveals a decline in drought severity and frequency over the past few decades.

Objective

• Investigate changes in seasonal drought patterns in the Northeastern United States using historical climate data.

Study Configuration

• Spatial Scale: Regional, focusing on the Northeastern United States.
• Temporal Scale: Long-term (1950s-present), with a focus on recent trends (1980s-2020s).

Methodology and Data

• Models used: Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) and Thornthwaite Potential Evapotranspiration (PET).
• Data sources: Historical climate data from the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), including precipitation, temperature, and evaporation records.

Main Results

• Observed decreases in seasonal drought severity and frequency across the Northeastern United States.
• Decline in drought duration and intensity over the past few decades.
• Changes in precipitation patterns contribute to reduced drought risk.

Contributions

• This study provides new insights into regional climate trends, highlighting the importance of considering long-term changes in drought patterns.
• The research contributes to a better understanding of the impacts of climate change on water resources and ecosystems.

Funding

• This research was supported by grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

Citation

@article{Wargo2026Observed,
  author = {Wargo, Janelle L. and Winter, Jonathan M. and Mankin, Justin and Osterberg, Erich C.},
  title = {Observed Decreases in Seasonal Drought across the Northeastern United States},
  journal = {Journal of Hydrometeorology},
  year = {2026},
  doi = {10.1175/jhm-d-25-0103.1},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.1175/jhm-d-25-0103.1}
}