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Current drought situation in Europe

The latest status of drought in Europe using a combined drought indicator. 

Detailed analysis of drought conditions

In late March 2026, according to the Combined Drought Indicator (CDI): 

Alert drought conditions

Alert conditions got slightly reduced in northern Africa and western Syria and increased in Crete, while small areas emerged in the eastern Mediterranean.

Warning drought conditions

Warning drought conditions expanded in Poland and Belarus, and persisted in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Hungary, Romania, north-western Balkans, Crete, Türkiye, and in the northern UK.  

Due to known issues (currently under investigation) that affect the estimated soil moisture, the CDI map may be less reliable in some regions, particularly western Russia. Users may consult the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), available at the European or Global Drought Observatory (EDO/GDO).

Watch drought conditions

Watch drought conditions persisted or expanded in north-eastern Europe, while in the Balkans, Austria, Czech Republic, and Denmark conditions improved considerably. 

Normal or recovery drought conditions

Recovery conditions are visible in central and northern Europe and in the Balkans. Large areas in Europe are under normal conditions.  

Note: this analysis was performed on 09-04-2026, based on data updated at late March 2026, and computed with version 4.1 of the Combined Drought Indicator.  

Past drought situation in Europe

You can find below the past situation of droughts in Europe.

Please note that the white areas on the maps labelled as "no data" should be interpreted as "no drought or recovery".