The drought in North Carolina has worsened, with 99.98% of the state now in a drought or experiencing abnormally dry conditions.
Beaufort, Bertie, Columbus, Craven, Greene, Martin, Pamlico, Pitt, Stokes and Wayne counties are now in a severe drought (D2 classification), according to the latest drought advisory released Wednesday. In addition, 69 counties across the state are now in a moderate drought (D1 classification). Another 21 counties were classified as abnormally dry.
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"This is only the second time in the last decade that dry conditions have covered the whole state," said Klaus Albertin, chair of the Drought Management Advisory Council (DMAC).
WRAL meteorologists said 75% of North Carolina is now in a drought.
This has been the driest June on record in many locations, according to data from the Southeast Regional Climate Center. It’s also the driest June on record statewide, according to the North Carolina State Climate Office.
Friday is a WRAL Weather Alert Day due to the extreme temperatures. Wake, Durham and surrounding counties are under an excessive heat warning from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and could see a heat index as high as 110 degrees. In the eastern half of the state, most other areas are under a heat advisory from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., meaning it could feel like 105 degrees or hotter.
"Agriculture is expected to see significant damage to corn, tobacco and soybean crops," Albertin said. "Stream flow is in the lowest 10th percentile in much of central and eastern North Carolina. Groundwater levels are also dropping steadily."
Groundwater and surface water reservoirs typically see higher demand for water during the summer, and the ongoing dry conditions could result in water restrictions. For counties in a severe drought, authorities recommend implementing drought response actions, including the implementation of Water Shortage Response Plans.
Authorities recommend conserving water during this period.
You can reduce your water use by following these tips:
- Limit the use of clothes washers and dishwashers.
- Reduce the flushing of toilets to the minimum.
- Limit lawn watering to only when grass shows signs of withering and apply water as slowly as possible.
- Limit shrubbery watering to the minimum reusing household water when possible.
- Limit car washing to the minimum. Use a hose with a nozzle to control water flow and minimize waste.
- Limit wash downs of outside areas such as sidewalks, patios, driveways.
- Limit hours of operation of water cooled air conditioners, if possible.
- Use disposable dishes and utensils, both for residential and commercial purposes.