Recent observational data from the U.S. Drought Monitor (valid August 25, 2026) indicate exceptional (D4) drought covering roughly 14% of Colorado—the largest share of any state—along with pockets in the Intermountain West and northern Plains amid persistent high pressure, above-normal temperatures, and low soil moisture. Degradation occurred across the Southern Plains and Upper Midwest due to evaporative demand outpacing scattered convection, while monsoon activity brought limited relief elsewhere in the Southwest. The U.S. Drought Monitor, produced jointly by NOAA, USDA, and partners, is released weekly each Thursday and classifies conditions using multiple indicators including precipitation deficits and groundwater levels. The next map, covering the week of September 1, will reflect any late-August changes; the Climate Prediction Center’s seasonal drought outlook update follows on September 17. Strong El Niño conditions expected this fall add uncertainty to short-term intensification or relief patterns.