Drought status update: No changes for eastern NC

The latest drought update for Thursday, April 16th shows no chances for eastern North Carolina. Most of the viewing remaining in a severe drought, with moderate drought conditions north of the Albemarle Sound. The extreme drought conditions expanded further westward and now include portions of northern Wake county.

Last week’s drought update from April 9th was identical to the newly updated map for all counties from I-95 eastward through the coast.

The last measurable rainfall (around 1.0″) for eastern North Carolina came back on Easter Sunday with no measurable rainfall since. Most of the region has a 5-8 inch rainfall deficit this year. This has exacerbated the ongoing fire danger risk, as the statewide burn ban remains in place until further notice.

The next chance of rain in eastern NC is targeting Sunday, April 19th, but rainfall totals will likely not exceed 0.50″, with dry condition returning next week.