Drought in Middle Rio Grande Valley, New Mexico

Drought conditions intensified throughout New Mexico with many locations reporting little measureable rainfall and warmer than normal temperatures through April. By the end of the month rainfall totals since January 1 ranged from only 10-15 percent of normal across most eastern counties to 40-60 percent of normal elsewhere. Fuel moisture conditions in the national forests were at their lowest levels in 30 years. Fire danger climbed to and then remained at extreme levels throughout the month. Agricultural losses were estimated in the millions of dollars as farmers suffered 80 to 90 percent losses of the typical wheat harvest. Ranchers in many areas were being forced to liquidate herds in lieu of no grassland grazing and high feeding costs.