 This paper proposes a new satellite-based drought index called the Modified Temperature Vegetation Drinus Index, MTVDI. This index uses MODIS data to measure vegetation dryness and is designed specifically for areas with high fractional vegetation cover, FVC. It has been found to be more accurate than other existing drought indices such as the Temperature Vegetation Drinus Index, TVDI, and has improved correlation coefficients with drought indicators such as standardized precipitation evapotranspiration indices, SPEIs, potential evapotranspiration, PET, crop water deficit index, CWDI, and precipitation. Additionally, the MTVDI has been shown to be more reliable and accurate during major drought events. This article was authored by Rui Dai, Xingbo Qin, Yijing Chao, and others.