The problem of drought is examined as a manifestation of anomalous patterns of the atmosphere's general circulation. Special consideration is given to the quasi-stationary planetary wave ensembles which are responsible for extensive summertime drought over the United States. The critical importance of the great Atlantic and Pacific anticyclones for encouraging or discouraging the development of the great North American upper level anticyclone, the immediate drought producing cell, is emphasized. Abstract The problem of drought is examined as a manifestation of anomalous patterns of the atmosphere's general circulation. Special consideration is given to the quasi-stationary planetary wave ensembles which are responsible for extensive summertime drought over the United States. The critical importance of the great Atlantic and Pacific anticyclones for encouraging or discouraging the development of the great North American upper level anticyclone, the immediate drought producing cell, is emphasized.