February Climate Summary
Hydrological Drought
– Hydrological drought has eased in much of the
Southwest.
• Portions of Arizona and New Mexico have been removed from drought
status.
• Many reservoirs have held steady or increased due to recent precipitation.
Precipitation
– Above-average precipitation fell across Arizona and New Mexico
over the past 30 days. Snowpack is also above average in many regional river basins.
Temperature
– Temperatures have been above average over the past 30 days and
throughout the current water year.
Climate Forecasts
– Long-lead forecasts indicate increased chances of warmer-
than-average conditions in Arizona and New Mexico through August. Increased
chances of above-average precipitation are predicted through May.
El Niño
– A weak El Niño continues in the tropical Pacific Ocean. Forecasts call for
a greater likelihood of neutral conditions from mid-summer to early 2006.
The Bottom Line
– Drought conditions are expected to improve in the coming
months, although large reservoir levels will remain low.
Southwest Climate Outlook February 2005
Published by the Climate Assessment for the Southwest (CLIMAS), with support from University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, the Arizona State Climate Office, and the New Mexico State Climate office.
Disclaimer. This packet contains official and non-official forecasts, as well as other information. While we make every effort to verify this information, please understand that we do not warrant the accuracy of any of these materials. The user assumes the entire risk related to the use of this data. CLIMAS, UA Cooperative Extension, and the State Climate Office at Arizona State University (ASU) disclaim any and all warranties, whether expressed or implied, including (without limitation) any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. In no event will CLIMAS, UA Cooperative Extension, and the State Climate Office at ASU or The University of Arizona be liable to you or to any third party for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special or exemplary damages or lost profit resulting from any use or misuse of this data.