Areas of the southeast and northwest have been especially by dry weather in recent years. Officials have restricted when residents can use water for outdoor activities like watering lawns or washing cars—early mornings, alternating days, or just once a week. Home owners are encouraged to forego the traditional green lawns in favor of local perennnials, grasses, and rock gardens to deocorate yards.

Summer in Florida brings with it frequent lightning strikes, and heightens the chances for fire. In Alabama and Georgia, farmers struggle to keep thirsty crops alive. As the land dries up, fire becomes a greater concern.

In the West, fire season usually runs from Mid-May through November. However, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) reports more fires occur throughout the year.