WOAY-TV (Oak Hill, WV): The latest drought update remains bleak and it’s definitely evident from the very low stream flows, brown lawns and early foliage season.
The state is historically dry, even one month after the highest drought designation was introduced in western and west-central West Virginia. Our state leads the nation with the most real estate in pastures and topsoil and subsoil rated poor to very poor.
The Greenbrier Valley needs 2 to 4 inches to catch up on average since the start of the summer while Route 19 is behind by 6 to 7 inches.
The recent rainfall (see map below) was too scattered to be beneficial. Yes, a few lawns in Nicholas and Fayette County may be a little greener, but a widespread soaking rain for several days is necessary.
Late this weekend into midweek next week will offer scattered rainfall, but it likely won’t be enough to change our current drought status. It should keep the highest-level drought classification, exceptional drought, from overspreading the region though.
Stay with the StormWatch weather team for the latest.
