State Seasonal Update Monthly indicators Seasonal conditions and drought assessment Combined Drought Indicator (CDI)
May 2026

NSW Combined Drought Indicator (NSW-CDI)

Approximately 50% of NSW is in one of the NSW Combined Drought Indicator drought categories (as of 31 May 2026) and ongoing drought conditions remain for parts of southern, central, and central north NSW.

Percentage area of NSW in each of the CDI categories at the end of the month

CDI CategoryApril 2026April 2026
Non-Drought32.1%30.6%
Recovering10.5%19.7%
Drought Affected 56.8%48.7%
Drought0.6%1.0%
Intense Drought0.0%0.0%

It is important to recognise the NSW-CDI provides an aggregated view of NSW, and that on-ground conditions can be different to those displayed in the maps. They provide a longer term ‘on average’ view of a particular region only.

The NSW Government no longer makes drought declarations. This was part of the National Drought Agreement, which came into effect in 2013 and agreed to by State Governments. The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development monitors seasonal conditions (including drought) using the Combined Drought Indicator (CDI).Learn more about the Program here.

NSW Combined Drought Indicator (NSW-CDI)

Click on the scroll bar to view the map over the past 12 months.

NSW Area in Drought

Hover over the chart to see the percentage area in each category.

Support Services

Producers and members of rural communities are encouraged to maintain contact with their local professionals who can facilitate access to appropriate support.

Local Land Services can assist landholders with drought planning and preparedness extension services; provide technical support including animal nutrition and management advice. Visit the LLS Drought Adoption Officer program website to find your local contact and more information.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service provide free, unbiased, independent, confidential and expert support to rural businesses in NSW.

The Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) is a non-clinical program funded by the NSW Ministry of Health delivering mental health promotion, prevention, and early intervention initiatives to help people to better prepare for, respond to and recovery from adversity. Visit their website to find out more.

Visit DroughtHub for support resources including business planning at: droughthub.nsw.gov.au

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