TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – The drought monitoring system managed by NOAA and the University of Nebraska – Lincoln was updated Thursday and conditions continue to deteriorate across the Buckeye State. Drought conditions first developed in southern Ohio in June, but did not reach northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan until late August. Today, all 48 neighboring U.S. states are experiencing some form of drought. On the map, yellow represents abnormally dry conditions, but it’s not officially a drought until you’re in the tan color. It is not a large, continuous area, but the drought extends from coast to coast. The worst drought in Ohio continues to be focused on the southeastern part of the state, but here in northwest Ohio the worst extreme drought remains centered in Fulton County. Meanwhile, the large area of ​​severe drought, colored orange, has expanded to our eastern counties with the latest update this week. Looking at national developments over the past week, drought conditions worsened in the Southeast and Northeast, but improved in the Plains after heavy rains over the weekend last. Currently, 88% of the country is in “abnormally dry conditions”, or worse, the highest number since the drought monitoring system launched in 2000. However, this is not the most widespread drought we have ever recorded. Over the past 24 years, there have been several periods where actual “drought conditions” have been more extensive and longer lasting than they are today. However, for the Buckeye State, the 2012 drought was more widespread, but the current one is much more intense. When you look at the precipitation forecast for the next few weeks, you will see that it will be above normal across much of the country, including our viewing area. While the rain we receive will be helpful, it is unlikely to end the current drought. More good news is that we are out of the growing season, so the current drought is not as impactful as it would have been 6 months ago. Plus, winter is “charging season” in our area. With less sunlight, cooler temperatures, and no plants growing, more rain can soak into the ground before evaporating.

Latest local news | First weather alert | Crime | National | 13abc Originals

Copyright 2024 WTVG. All rights reserved.