Ohio experienced its most intense drought in 25 years in 2024, reaching an unprecedented Exceptional Drought (D4) level on the U.S. Drought Monitor. Since the monitor's inception in 2000, parts of Ohio faced the highest drought severity for the first time, affecting agriculture, water resources, and local communities.

Despite the historic nature of the drought, Ohio was not caught unprepared. The state is part of the Midwest Drought Early Warning System (DEWS) established by the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS). Thanks to proactive planning and research, Ohio was equipped with advanced drought monitoring tools and response strategies well before the crisis unfolded.

In April 2024, NIDIS and its regional partners issued a Drought Status Update, warning of potential drought risks due to long-term precipitation deficits. Aaron Wilson, the State Climatologist of Ohio, used this update to activate Ohio State University Extension's Drought Response Team, which quickly mobilized. The team worked to provide critical resources to farmers and communities, helping mitigate the impact of worsening drought conditions.

NIDIS issued a flash drought alert in June 2024, and by late August, southeastern Ohio officially entered Exceptional Drought status. By September 24, 2024, a staggering 87.7% of the state was experiencing drought, with over 35% in Extreme to Exceptional Drought conditions. In response, NIDIS partnered with regional experts to host a webinar for stakeholders, including Congressional staffers and state government officials, to discuss the drought's impact on agriculture and water supply. Federal and state agencies provided updates on relief efforts, and meteorologists confirmed that the drought had peaked and conditions were expected to improve.

The drought gradually subsided over the following month, while continued monitoring by NIDIS and state agencies ensured that recovery efforts remained on track. By late 2024, the drought had almost entirely dissipated, thanks in part to proactive early warning systems and coordinated response efforts.

Reflecting on the crisis, Wilson emphasized the power of preparedness:

"I think it's the people and the network—when the information is communicated effectively—that is the bread and butter of a Drought Early Warning System!"

Ohio's experience underscores the importance of early warning systems in managing climate-related disasters. With climate variability expected to increase, continued investment in monitoring, research, and response coordination will be crucial in safeguarding communities from future droughts.

Visit NIDIS to read "Early Warning In Action: Record Drought in Ohio."