What is the estimated cost of the Southern Plains drought on agriculture?

The drought cost the agriculture industry an estimated US$23.6 billion in lost crops, higher feed costs, and cattle sell-offs from 2020 through 2024.

How has the drought affected water supplies in Texas?

Water sources across the region are critically depleted; San Antonio's reservoirs and the Edwards Aquifer reached record-low levels in 2024 and 2025.

When might the Southern Plains drought end?

With a potential shift from La Niña to El Niño, wetter conditions could arrive in the fall and winter of 2026, but drought conditions may worsen before improving.

Home / Environment / Six-Year Drought Devastates Southern Plains Farms

Six-Year Drought Devastates Southern Plains Farms

19 Feb

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Summary

Drought cost agriculture $23.6 billion from 2020-2024.
Ranchers sold over 4,000 cattle in a 24-hour auction.
Water sources hit record lows in San Antonio by 2024.

Six-Year Drought Devastates Southern Plains Farms

The Southern Plains has been enduring a severe drought for six years, with significant impacts still felt in 2026. This prolonged dry spell has cost the agriculture sector an estimated $23.6 billion from 2020 through 2024 due to lost crops and increased feed costs. Ranchers have been forced into drastic measures, such as an all-night auction in Texas where over 4,000 cattle were sold.

The drought's severity is exacerbated by rising temperatures and a persistent La Niña climate pattern, leading to rapid drought intensification events. Water supplies across the region are critically depleted, with reservoirs and groundwater reserves falling to historic lows. San Antonio's water sources, including the Edwards Aquifer, reached record lows in 2024 and 2025.