Widespread improvements concentrated in Southern California were observed for the second-consecutive week, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.

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Exceptional drought – the most severe level – has been lifted in the entire state since it first appeared on Jan. 28, 2014. The Drought Monitor, which collects data from 50 different weather indicators, last showed a drought map that was clear in December 2011.

This article was originally published on Aug. 7, 2014 and is updated periodically. Changes have been made in the text to reflect the latest developments. …Read more