JACKSON, Wyo. — Drought conditions have recently enveloped Teton County. The whole county is now considered to be in either moderate or severe drought, according to the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS).

NIDIS lists five levels of drought, starting with the “abnormally dry” category (D0). Currently, Teton County is experiencing moderate drought (D1) and severe drought (D2). Possible impacts of moderate drought include some damage to crops and pastures; low water levels in streams, reservoirs or wells; some water shortages developing or imminent; and voluntary water-use restrictions requested. The possible impacts of severe drought include a probable loss of crops or pastures; water shortages becoming common; and imposed water restrictions.

A screenshot from the NIDIS website indicating drought levels across the state of Wyoming.

According to NIDIS, approximately 21,263 people in Teton County are currently facing drought conditions, and the county experienced its 9th-driest June on record. There are two main areas experiencing D2 circumstances: in the southeast corner of the county in the Gros Ventre Wilderness; and in the northwest corner of the county, straddling the Idaho/Wyoming border and into Montana, from Jackson Lake north to West Yellowstone.

According to Buckrail Meteorologist Alan Smith, because July and August are the two hottest and sunniest months of the season, that means soil evaporation rates are highest, and it’s a challenge to get any drought relief.

“The best we can hope for is that we get enough mid to late summer rain to slow the progression of the drought,” said Smith.

The North American Monsoon is a circulation of subtropical moisture that typically peaks in July and August over the Southwest U.S. Smith said that the Jackson area will sometimes see moisture, thunderstorms and heavy rain from this weather pattern. But even in recent years with midsummer drought followed by monsoon rains in August, the drought conditions did not improve. The progression only slowed.

“When midsummer drought conditions are present,” said Smith, “we typically don’t see any improvement until the following fall and winter season if precipitation is above average.”

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.