Drought in Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Severe (D2) drought conditions persisted across much of Lancaster County through May 2026. Precipitation for the month of May 2026 largely remained near climatological averages for much of the county; however, prolonged dry conditions over many months allowed for drought conditions promoted continuation of severe drought conditions. A Drought Watch remained in effect by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for the entire month.

Severe (D2) drought remained across portions of southern Pennsylvania throughout the month with near-to-slightly below average precipitation values observed across much of the region throughout May 2026. One area that received above average precipitation was across southern Fulton County which allowed for the county to be removed from severe drought towards the end of the month. Elsewhere, Franklin County remained under a Drought Warning while Lancaster County remained in a Drought Watch from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.