WASHINGTON — The combination of little rain and extreme heat has led to significant drought conditions across parts of the DMV. Thirty-five percent of the forecast area is now in an extreme drought.
Abnormally Dry:
Short term dryness that typically results in slower growth for plants, crops and pastures. Fire risk is generally above average.
Moderate Drought:
Can lead to damage to crops and pastures. Higher fire risk. Streams, reservoirs or well levels can experience shortages. Developing or imminent voluntary water use restrictions requested.
Severe Drought:
Crop or pasture loss likely. Fire risk very high. Water shortages are common and water restrictions are typically imposed.
Extreme Drought:
Major crop and pasture losses. Extreme fire danger. Widespread water shortages or restrictions.
Drought Impacts
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality issued drought watch and warning advisories across the state. Residents under these advisories are encouraged to limit and conserve water usage particularly citizens using private wells. A few other pieces of advice from DEQ include:
- Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day, which is typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Avoid noncommercial washing of vehicles, boats or other equipment
- Run dishwashers and washing machines when full and avoid handwashing dishes
Per the National Weather Service, the dry conditions are impacting the following:
- Agriculture
- Farms, ranches and grazing lands are being threatened and the dry conditions increases the cost of their products
- Ecosystems
- Drought conditions harm fish, wildlife and plants as well as the benefits these ecosystems provide
- Manufacturing
- Interruptions in the water supply can result in a reduction of productivity or closure of facilities
- Public Health
- A decrease of water can lead to an increase of illness, disease, mortality rates and adverse mental health impacts
- Wildlife Management
- Dry, hot and windy conditions combined with dry vegetation can lead to more large-scale wildfires
- Energy
- Production of all types of energy requires water, and drought can severely impact energy systems and prices
Rainfall Outlook
While the Climate Prediction Centers 8 - 14 day rainfall outlook which take us through the start of August indicates we could see slightly above average precipitation, there are no major storm systems on the horizon.
