Recent heavy precipitation from remnants of Hurricane Polo and other storms has driven notable improvements in drought conditions across the Southern Plains, Southwest, and parts of the Southeast, reducing the national area classified as exceptional drought (D4) to about 1% as of the U.S. Drought Monitor map valid October 6, 2026. The National Drought Mitigation Center, NOAA, and partners compile this weekly assessment using precipitation, soil moisture, streamflow, and vegetation data, showing overall drought coverage at 46.3% of the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Persistent dryness continues to sustain or worsen conditions in the Lower Mississippi Valley and Northeast, with Maine seeing increased severe drought. The next U.S. Drought Monitor release, expected October 15, will reflect data through mid-October and directly inform resolution for the week of October 13.