Elevated temperatures have dried out many parts of the state, and about a quarter of North Carolina counties now have severe drought advisories.
Columbus County, in the eastern part of the state, faces extreme drought conditions, according to the N.C. Drought Management Advisory Council.
The council, a collaboration between state and federal agencies and private utilities like Duke Energy, meets weekly to assess drought conditions. For instance, the N.C. Forest Service informs the council on how drought worsens wildfire risks.
The North Carolina Drought Advisory urges several actions for water users in drought-affected areas:
Extreme Drought (D3) Areas:
- Follow Water Shortage Response Plans (WSRP).
- Reduce water use for critical needs like firefighting and health.
- Explore alternative water sources and reuse options.
- Stay informed on drought conditions at ncdrought.org.
Severe Drought (D2) Areas:
- Implement WSRPs, if not already enacted.
- Reexamine water systems to minimize loss and maximize efficiency.
- Eliminate nonessential water uses.
- Evaluate water reuse, reclamation, and recycling feasibility.
- Reduce water usage proportionally to supply shortages.
- Increase public awareness on water conservation.
Stay updated on drought conditions and advisories at ncdrought.org.
