Climate Change in the U.S 2025
The United States continues to experience unprecedented climate shifts in 2025, with government data revealing alarming trends across temperature, precipitation, and extreme weather patterns. As we progress through 2025, federal agencies including NOAA, EPA, and NASA have documented significant climate indicators that paint a clear picture of our changing environment. The contiguous United States has witnessed its second-warmest spring on record in 2025, with temperatures reaching 3.2°F above the long-term average. These dramatic shifts represent more than statistical anomalies—they signal fundamental changes to American weather systems that impact millions of lives and billions of dollars in economic activity.
The climate crisis in America has reached a critical juncture where extreme weather events are becoming the norm rather than the exception. From record-breaking rainfall in the Southeast to persistent drought conditions across the Northwest, 2025 has demonstrated the far-reaching impacts of global warming on domestic soil. Federal data shows that 29.6% of the contiguous U.S. remains under drought conditions as of June 2025, while other regions experience above-average precipitation and flooding. This stark contrast illustrates the complex nature of climate change impacts, where some areas face water scarcity while others grapple with excessive moisture and severe storms.
Climate Change Statistics & Facts in the US 2025
| Climate Indicator | 2025 Data | Comparison to Average | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Temperature (Mar-May) | 54.1°F | 3.2°F above average | NOAA/NCEI |
| May 2025 Temperature | 61.7°F | 1.5°F above average | NOAA/NCEI |
| April 2025 Temperature | 53.6°F | 2.6°F above average | NOAA/NCEI |
| Drought Coverage | 29.6% | 7.4% decrease from April | U.S. Drought Monitor |
| Climate Disasters (1980-2024) | 396 events | $2.78 trillion total cost | NOAA |
| Americans Believing in Global Warming | 72% | National consensus | Yale Climate Program |
| May 2025 Precipitation | 3.63 inches | 0.72 inch above average | NOAA/NCEI |
| Spring 2025 Precipitation | 8.90 inches | 0.97 inch above average | NOAA/NCEI |
The climate statistics for 2025 reveal a nation grappling with intensifying weather extremes and rising temperatures. NOAA’s National Centers for Environmental Information reports that the spring season of 2025 ranks as the second-warmest on record for the contiguous United States, with an average temperature of 54.1°F—a staggering 3.2°F above the 20th-century average. This warming trend has been particularly pronounced in states like Florida, which experienced its second-warmest May on record at 4.0°F above average. The temperature anomalies extend beyond seasonal averages, with May 2025 recording 61.7°F, placing it in the warmest third of the 131-year period of record.
Precipitation patterns have shown equally dramatic shifts, with May 2025 receiving 3.63 inches of rainfall—0.72 inch above the 20th-century average. The Southeast region recorded its second-wettest May, while Alabama achieved its wettest May on record with more than 10 inches of rainfall. These extreme precipitation events have contributed to significant drought improvement along the East Coast and across much of the Plains states. However, 29.6% of the contiguous U.S. remained under drought conditions as of June 2025, demonstrating the persistent nature of water scarcity challenges in western regions.
Temperature Trends in the US 2025
| Region | Temperature Anomaly | Ranking | Notable Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contiguous U.S. (Spring) | +3.2°F | 2nd warmest | 131-year record |
| Florida (May) | +4.0°F | 2nd warmest | State record |
| North Carolina (Spring) | +3.7°F | 2nd warmest | State record |
| Alaska (May) | +1.2°F | Middle third | 101-year record |
| Hawaii (Spring) | Above average | Warmest on record | Multiple stations |
Temperature trends across the United States in 2025 have shattered numerous records and established new benchmarks for climate monitoring. The contiguous United States experienced its second-warmest spring in the 131-year temperature record, with an average of 54.1°F—a remarkable 3.2°F above the long-term average. This warming has been particularly intense across the Southeast, where states like Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, and Virginia each recorded their third-warmest spring or higher. The Pacific region also showed significant warming, with Hawaii recording its warmest spring on record at multiple monitoring stations, including Honolulu International and Moloka’i airports.
Regional temperature variations reveal the complex nature of climate change impacts across different geographical areas. While much of the West, Southwest, Northwest, northern Rockies, and Plains recorded above-average temperatures, the central United States experienced near-to-below-average conditions. Florida’s record-breaking May at 4.0°F above average exemplifies the extreme warming trend affecting the Gulf Coast states. Alaska presented a more moderate warming pattern with May temperatures at 1.2°F above the long-term average, though the state’s spring season still ranked in the warmest third of historical records at 3.7°F above average.
Precipitation Patterns in the US 2025
| Region | Precipitation Amount | Departure from Average | Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contiguous U.S. (May) | 3.63 inches | +0.72 inch | Wettest third |
| Southeast (May) | Above average | Significant excess | 2nd wettest |
| Alabama (May) | >10 inches | Record-breaking | Wettest on record |
| Alaska (May) | Above average | Exceptional rainfall | 2nd wettest |
| Spring Precipitation | 8.90 inches | +0.97 inch | Wettest third |
Precipitation patterns in 2025 have demonstrated the increasing volatility of America’s water cycle, with dramatic regional variations creating both flood and drought conditions simultaneously. May 2025 delivered 3.63 inches of precipitation across the contiguous United States—0.72 inch above the 20th-century average—ranking in the wettest third of the 131-year record. The Southeast region experienced its second-wettest May, with Alabama achieving its wettest May on record by becoming the first state to receive more than 10 inches of rainfall in that month. Other states experiencing record or near-record wet conditions included Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont, each recording their second-wettest May.
The spring season (March-May) of 2025 continued this trend with 8.90 inches of precipitation—0.97 inch above the long-term average—placing it in the wettest third of the historical record. Alaska experienced particularly notable conditions, recording its second-wettest May and tying for its second-wettest spring on record, largely due to exceptionally heavy rainfall in the Southeast region where many long-term stations established new monthly precipitation records. However, this abundance of moisture was not distributed evenly, as drier-than-average conditions persisted along portions of the Pacific Coast, the Northwest, and the upper Mississippi Valley, highlighting the complex regional variations in climate change impacts.
Extreme Weather Events in the US 2025
| Event Type | Frequency/Impact | Geographic Distribution | Economic Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tornado Reports | >200 reports | May 15-16, 18-20 | Significant damage |
| Severe Thunderstorms | Two major outbreaks | South to Northeast | Property damage |
| Billion-Dollar Disasters (1980-2024) | 396 events | Nationwide | $2.78 trillion |
| Heat Waves | Record temperatures | Western states | Public health impacts |
| Flooding Events | Multiple occurrences | Southeast/Northeast | Infrastructure damage |
Extreme weather events have intensified dramatically across the United States in 2025, with federal agencies documenting unprecedented storm activity and severe weather outbreaks. Two significant severe weather events occurred on May 15-16 and May 18-20, resulting in over 200 tornado reports accompanied by very large hail and damaging winds. These outbreaks brought storms and heavy rain from the South to the Northeast, causing widespread property damage and disrupting millions of lives. The frequency and intensity of these events represent a continuation of the trend documented by NOAA, which reports that from 1980 to August 2024, the United States experienced 396 weather and climate disasters where overall damages reached at least $1 billion each.
The economic toll of extreme weather has reached staggering proportions, with the total cost of billion-dollar disasters exceeding $2.78 trillion as of August 2024. Heat waves have become increasingly common, with June 2025 ranking as the 7th-warmest on record for the United States, largely due to extreme heat at the month’s end. Flooding events have become more frequent and severe, particularly affecting the Southeast and Northeast regions where above-average precipitation has led to widespread infrastructure damage and emergency declarations. These extreme weather patterns reflect the broader climate crisis, where traditional weather systems are being disrupted by rising global temperatures and changing atmospheric conditions.
Drought Conditions in the US 2025
| Metric | Current Status | Change from Previous | Affected Regions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Drought Coverage | 29.6% | -7.4% from April | Western states |
| Drought Improvement | Significant | East Coast/Plains | Multiple states |
| Drought Development | Ongoing | Northwest/Great Lakes | Emerging areas |
| Hawaii Drought | Mixed conditions | Variable by island | Big Island intensified |
| Future Outlook | Persistence expected | Southwest/Plains | Continued challenges |
Drought conditions across the United States in 2025 present a complex picture of both improvement and deterioration, reflecting the uneven impacts of climate change on regional water resources. According to the June 3 U.S. Drought Monitor report, approximately 29.6% of the contiguous United States remained under drought conditions, representing a decrease of approximately 7.4% since the end of April 2025. This improvement has been particularly notable along the East Coast, from Florida to the Northeast, where drought conditions contracted or decreased in intensity due to above-average precipitation throughout the spring months. Widespread drought improvement also occurred across sections of the southern, central, and northern Plains states.
However, drought conditions have simultaneously developed or intensified across parts of the Northwest, central Rockies, middle Mississippi Valley, and Great Lakes regions, demonstrating the dynamic nature of water scarcity challenges. In Hawaii, drought patterns have shown significant variation, with conditions improving over the western islands while intensifying over the Big Island. Climate forecasters expect drought to persist across much of the Southwest and parts of the central and northern Plains, with additional development likely in portions of the Pacific West, Northwest, and northern Rockies. Some drought improvement is anticipated in parts of Florida and along the Mid-Atlantic Coast, though overall conditions remain precarious.
Regional Climate Impacts in the US 2025
| Region | Primary Impacts | Temperature Anomaly | Precipitation Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southeast | Record rainfall/flooding | Above average | 2nd wettest May |
| Northeast | Heavy precipitation | Above average | 3rd wettest May |
| Northwest | Drought development | Above average | Below average |
| Southwest | Persistent drought | Above average | Mixed conditions |
| Great Plains | Drought improvement | Near average | Above average |
Regional climate impacts across the United States in 2025 have varied dramatically, creating a patchwork of extreme conditions that illustrate the complex nature of climate change effects. The Southeast region has experienced some of the most dramatic changes, recording its second-wettest May with above-average temperatures creating conditions conducive to severe thunderstorms and flooding events. Alabama’s record-breaking May with more than 10 inches of rainfall exemplifies the extreme precipitation affecting Gulf Coast states. The Northeast has similarly experienced its third-wettest May, with states like Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont recording their second-wettest conditions on record.
In stark contrast, the Northwest and Southwest regions continue to grapple with persistent drought conditions and water scarcity challenges. The Pacific Coast and Northwest have experienced below-average precipitation despite above-average temperatures, creating ideal conditions for wildfire development and agricultural stress. Climate forecasters indicate that significant wildland fire potential remains above normal for June across portions of the Pacific Coast, Northwest, and Southwest. The Great Plains region has shown more positive developments, with drought improvement occurring across much of the area due to above-average precipitation during the spring months, though northern Plains areas continue to face challenges.
Climate Change Outlook in the US 2025
| Forecast Element | June 2025 Prediction | Geographic Focus | Confidence Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature Outlook | Above average | Lower 48 states | High confidence |
| Precipitation Forecast | Below average | Northwest | Moderate confidence |
| Drought Persistence | Continued | Southwest/Plains | High confidence |
| Wildfire Risk | Above normal | Western states | High confidence |
| Severe Weather | Ongoing threat | South/Southeast | Moderate confidence |
The climate outlook for the remainder of 2025 suggests continued challenges and extreme weather patterns across the United States, with federal forecasters predicting persistent above-average temperatures and varied precipitation patterns. Above-average temperatures are expected across much of the Lower 48 states in June 2025, particularly in parts of the Northwest and Northeast regions. The Climate Prediction Center forecasts lower-than-average precipitation in the Northwest, while wetter-than-average conditions are expected across parts of the Southwest, central Plains, and extending into the South and Southeast. These patterns suggest continued regional disparities in climate impacts.
Drought conditions are expected to persist across much of the Southwest and parts of the central and northern Plains, with additional development likely in portions of the Pacific West, Northwest, and northern Rockies. Wildfire risk remains above normal for June across multiple regions, including the Pacific Coast, Northwest, Southwest, southern Plains, upper Mississippi Valley, and Southeast. The National Interagency Fire Center has issued elevated fire weather outlooks for these areas, reflecting the combined impacts of drought conditions, above-average temperatures, and dry vegetation. Climate scientists emphasize that these conditions represent the new normal under global warming, requiring enhanced preparedness and adaptation strategies across all levels of government and society.
State-by-State Climate Analysis in the US 2025
| State | Temperature Anomaly | Precipitation Status | Drought Coverage | Climate Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | +4.0°F above average | Above average | 40-50% improvement | 2nd warmest May |
| North Carolina | +3.7°F above average | Above average | 35-45% improvement | 2nd warmest spring |
| Georgia | +3.5°F above average | Above average | 25-35% improvement | 3rd warmest spring |
| Alabama | +2.9°F above average | Record wettest May | Significant improvement | >10 inches rainfall |
| Louisiana | +3.4°F above average | Variable | Moderate improvement | 3rd warmest spring |
| California | Above average | Below average | 65-80% drought | Severe water crisis |
| Nevada | Above average | Well below average | 70-85% drought | Extreme conditions |
| Alaska | +1.2°F above average | 2nd wettest May | Minimal drought | Record precipitation |
State-level climate statistics reveal dramatic variations across the United States, with Southeastern states experiencing unprecedented warming while Western states grapple with persistent drought conditions. Florida leads the nation with its second-warmest May on record at 4.0°F above average, followed by North Carolina’s second-warmest spring at 3.7°F above average. Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, and Virginia each recorded their third-warmest spring or higher, establishing the Southeast as the epicenter of America’s warming trend in 2025.
The contrast between wet and dry conditions across states illustrates the complex regional impacts of climate change. Alabama achieved its wettest May on record with more than 10 inches of rainfall, while states like Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont recorded their second-wettest May. Conversely, California maintains 65-80% drought coverage with severe to extreme conditions, and Nevada faces 70-85% drought coverage representing the most challenging water scarcity conditions in the nation.
Top Warming States in the US 2025
| Rank | State | Spring Temperature Anomaly | Regional Impact | Record Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Florida | +4.0°F above average | Critical heat stress | 2nd warmest May |
| 2 | North Carolina | +3.7°F above average | Extreme warming | 2nd warmest spring |
| 3 | Georgia | +3.5°F above average | Significant heat | 3rd warmest spring |
| 4 | Louisiana | +3.4°F above average | Gulf Coast warming | 3rd warmest spring |
| 5 | Virginia | +3.3°F above average | Atlantic seaboard heat | 3rd warmest spring |
| 6 | Maryland | +3.2°F above average | Mid-Atlantic warming | 3rd warmest spring |
| 7 | Mississippi | +3.1°F above average | Southern heat dome | 3rd warmest spring |
The top warming states demonstrate a clear geographic pattern concentrated in the Southeast and Atlantic seaboard regions, where ocean-atmosphere interactions and heat dome formation have created unprecedented temperature increases. Florida’s record-breaking +4.0°F anomaly has significant implications for tourism, agriculture, and public health, while North Carolina’s +3.7°F increase represents the most dramatic spring warming in the state’s climate record.
The concentration of extreme warming in Southeastern states reflects broader climate patterns including changing ocean currents, urban heat island effects, and altered jet stream behavior. These states face compound challenges of extreme heat combined with variable precipitation patterns, creating conditions that stress infrastructure, agriculture, and human health systems throughout the region.
Disclaimer: The data research report we present here is based on information found from various sources. We are not liable for any financial loss, errors, or damages of any kind that may result from the use of the information herein. We acknowledge that though we try to report accurately, we cannot verify the absolute facts of everything that has been represented.
