Despite recent rains, including nearly three inches that fell on parts of Hatteras Island on Friday, all of northeastern North Carolina and the Outer Banks are in moderate drought conditions that are getting worse.
If it seems this November has been quite drier than last year, you aren't imagining things. This month, only the immediate coast has gotten appreciable rainfall. This time last year, most areas had already received half a foot of precipitation. pic.twitter.com/BDbBq6ncME
— NWS Newport/Morehead (@NWSMoreheadCity) November 14, 2021
The National Drought Mitigation Center and North Carolina Climate Office said Thursday seasonal precipitation deficits are increasing while lakes, streams, and soils await a needed moisture recharge.
Moderate drought and abnormally dry conditions expanded in North Carolina, including in the Triad and central Coastal Plain, after another dry fall over the week ending November 9.
The N.C. Management Advisory Council strongly urges the implementation of the following drought response actions – in addition to previous advisories – for all water users located in or dependent on water resources from the areas of the state experiencing the following drought conditions:
D1 – Moderate Drought
- Adhere to local water use restrictions.
- Participate, as appropriate, in regional and local coordination for the management of water resources.
- Stay informed on drought conditions and advisories (www.ncdrought.org).
- Project water needs and available water supply for a ninety day period from the issuance of this advisory.
- Assess your vulnerability to the drought conditions and adjust water usage to prolong available supply.
- Inspect water delivery system components (e.g. irrigation lines, fixtures, processing equipment, water system lines, etc.), repair leaks and ensure that existing equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
- Minimize nonessential uses of water.
- Implement available public awareness and educational outreach programs emphasizing the need to conserve water.
