Persistent high pressure and above-normal temperatures across the south-central and north-central U.S. have driven recent degradations, expanding severe to exceptional (D2-D4) drought in the Southern Plains, Upper Midwest, and parts of the Rockies as of the U.S. Drought Monitor data valid August 25, 2026. D4 coverage remains limited nationally at roughly 1.75% of the contiguous U.S., concentrated in states such as Idaho (nearly 8%) with smaller extents in Arkansas and neighboring areas, while monsoon activity has eased conditions in the Southwest. The Climate Prediction Center notes strong El Niño development favoring potential shifts later, but short-term outlooks highlight continued evaporative demand through early September. The next USDM update, incorporating conditions through early September, will determine state-level D4 designations for the week of September 1.