"Wildfires have burned about 1.5 million acres in Texas since January, egged on by a drought that federal forecasters say is the worst to hit the state in 45 years. Officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say their weather models predict the severe drought that has parched the southern United States will continue to midsummer -- and beyond.

'Predictions over weeks to one to three months suggest the drought will continue, and even intensify, in some areas as we struggle to get any rainfall,' said David Brown, director of climate services for NOAA's Southern Region.

'This really is a historical climate event affecting our region,' he said, calling conditions 'extreme and exceptional.'"

Lauren Morello reports for ClimateWire April 26, 2011. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Fighters From 43 States Battle Far-Flung Texas Wildfires" (ClimateWire) [3]