2020 National Integrated Drought Information System Annual Report

The National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS) is pleased to share our 2020 Annual Report to provide insight into the many accomplishments of the program over the previous year and the opportunities that lie ahead. The year 2020 was exceptionally difficult for people worldwide, as the COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the globe and altered almost every facet of daily life. Not only was 2020 a significant drought year for the United States, it also brought record-breaking heat and devastating wildfires. 

In 2020, we made critical investments in our National Drought and Wildfire Nexus (NDAWN) partnership; completed a strategy for the development of a National Coordinated Soil Moisture Monitoring Network; jointly released the NIDIS Tribal Drought Engagement Strategy with our Federal, tribal, and other partners; and in December, were proud to convene researchers and decision makers to develop a shared understanding of flash drought and to identify research and tools needed to improve flash drought early warning.

Inside this report, you will see how we are advancing these and other national initiatives, as well as implementing on-the-ground activities across our 9 regional Drought Early Warning Systems.