MOBILE, Fla., March 6, 2026—Drought conditions are worsening through the central Gulf Coast.

The U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that most of Okaloosa County is in a severe drought while the entire forecast area has registered below-average rainfall.

According to the National Weather Service in Mobile, most of the forecast area is seeing substantial rainfall deficits ranging from 3” to 7” for the two-month period ending Feb. 28. This, along with other factors has contributed to the drought.

An area of extreme drought has developed over the interior of south-central Alabama. From an agricultural standpoint, this is bestraining crop and livestock health.

Elsewhere, much of the area is in the grip of moderate-to-severe drought intensity. Many river and stream points are well below normal-to-low in stages and flow.

This lack of rainfall has also elevated the risk of wildland fire.

The forecast indicates a 20 percent chance of showers after midnight tomorrow night, increasing to 50 percent during the day on Sunday with another 30 percent chance of rain on Monday.

Staff and NWS release