Despite Recent Rainfall, Lubbock Is Still Facing A Drought

Growing up in West Texas means you see every drop of rain as a blessing (sometimes a mixed one, but a blessing nonetheless). Since we live in a semi-arid prairie, we know the value of precipitation for agriculture, recreation, energy bills, and the future sustainability of the area.

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Recent Rainfall Amounts

Depending on your location in Lubbock County, we've seen 5.90 to 7.16 inches of rain in 2026. While the very recent rains may have made it feel like a wet year, this is actually below typical year-to-date averages. Annually, we average 17 to 20 inches of precipitation, so we have quite a bit to make up as the year continues.

Lubbock Drought By The Numbers

Extensive and readily-accessable data exists on drought conditions, including the Lubbock area. You can even see how many hogs are affected by the drought (3,173). There are 5 degrees of drought, ranging from D0 (abnormally dry) to D5 (exceptional drought). We are currently in a D1; however, it is predicted that our drought conditions will improve this year.

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Worst Recent Drought Years

Mid 2011 to mid 2014 saw many instances of exceptional drought in the area. The timeframe between 2010-2014 was historic in scale, comparable only to a very enduring drought in the 1950s:

The 1950s drought lasted longer than the 2010-2014 drought in every climate division in the state, but by some measures the 2010-2014 drought was more severe. The 2010-2014 drought set new standards for the hottest and driest 12- month periods on record, dropped streamflow to new lows, and prompted widespread emergency actions to maintain water supplies. 

These drought years saw major failures of crops and livestock, in addition to being simply miserable for people who live here. While there isn't too much we can do on an individual level, city and state leaders must prioritize emergency preparation for West Texas drought and fight to preserve the quality and quantity of fresh water in the area.