The July 18 National Drought Outlook released by a coalition of federal agencies anticipates that drought conditions will persist throughout most of the western U.S. through at least October. Though some minor relief is possible for portions of the Southwest due to seasonal rains, water resources are showing significant strain in many states, with New Mexico and western Texas seeing particularly low lake and reservoir levels (some under 10 percent of normal capacity). Above normal temperatures and elevated wildfire risk are also forecast for many western states. Maps and additional detail are provided in the latest National Drought Outlook report, which is available, along with recent regional reports, through the U.S. Drought Portal.