Evaluating spatial patterns of drought-induced tree mortality in a coastal California pine forest

•We mapped and modeled drought-induced tree mortality in a fog-influenced forest.•The highest density of tree mortality occurred in the driest portion of the stand.•Mortality was best explained by variables that control plant water availability.•Tree mortality was driven by summertime cloudiness, elevation, and tree height.•Probability of tree survival following drought is strongly associated with occurrence of coastal fog.