Large regions of deep-layer soil moisture deficits are caused by long-term (usually 9 months or more) precipitation shortages. In the U.S. and generally east of the Continental Divide, presence of large areas of deep-layer soil moisture deficits can foreshadow flash drought risk areas.

The June 2022 national temperature ranking was 15th warmest (of 128 years). The southern tier of the U.S. ranked in the MUCH ABOVE normal category with Texas close to an all-time record. The June 2022 national precipitation pattern was 12th driest on record and featured a wet pattern in the West (wettest June on record for Oregon) while the Central and East U.S. were very dry including the 2nd driest June on record in North Carolina.

Solar Cycle 25 appears to be intensifying more rapidly than initially forecast. Based on this early stage of solar cycle 25 observations, the solar peak projected for mid-decade is likely much stronger than previously forecast. There is potential for a historic solar maximum if the current rate of strengthening continues. Despite the potential for an exceptionally strong solar maximum, the correlation to larger than normal geomagnetic storms are not necessarily expected.

The MEI value for MAY/JUN 2022 was -1.9 which is the strongest negative index in the MEI 1979-2022 climatology with the exception of the second half of 2010 La Nina regime. The difference between the borderline La Nina Nino34 SSTA and intense La Nina MEI is the largest on record.