North Carolina is now free from drought, according to the latest advisory issued by the North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council (DMAC). This marks the first time since October 15, 2024, that the state has been without drought or abnormally dry conditions.
Klaus Albertin, chair of DMAC, explained that “due to the drought’s timing in winter and spring, impacts were limited since it occurred at a time when water demands are typically lower.” He added that “reservoir operators were able to control releases to keep water levels near target,” although there were some reported impacts on agriculture and an active wildfire season amid the dry conditions.
The state experienced significant dry conditions during this period, with notable rainfall deficits particularly in the coastal plain. Wilmington recorded nearly a 15-inch rainfall deficit compared to its 30-year average between October and mid-April, as per data from the North Carolina State Climate Office.
However, recent storms have brought substantial rain and localized flooding to eastern North Carolina. The North Carolina State Climate Office reports that Elizabeth City is on track for its wettest June on record with 6.52 inches of rain through June 17. Greenville experienced its wettest two-day period since Hurricane Florence in 2018 with a total of 6.71 inches between June 15 and 16.
Albertin noted that “the dryness that began in October of 2024 began tapering off in March,” with regular heavy rains restoring streamflow, reservoir levels, and soil conditions back to normal. He attributed this change to shifting out of the La Niña pattern which allowed more frequent cold fronts and heavy rains.
DMAC comprises drought experts from various government agencies across North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina. It is organized by the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Water Resources (DWR). The council meets weekly to submit drought condition recommendations to national bodies such as NOAA and updates their map every Thursday based on recent conditions.
For more information about North Carolina’s drought status or educational resources, visit www.ncdrought.org or https://www.ncdrought.org/education.
