New Mexico Declares State of Drought

The governor of New Mexico declared a state of drought last week for the entire state, as moderate to exceptional drought persists throughout the entire Southwest region. Arizona and New Mexico have seen temperatures well above average over the past 30 days with precipitation almost non-existent over the majority of the region, according to the May Southwest Climate Outlook from CLIMAS. The governor’s declaration will make it easier for New Mexico farmers and communities to receive federal funding for drought-related expenses. It will also institute the New Mexico Drought Task Force which will determine potential preparation and mitigation strategies in response to persistent drought conditions.