Drought Conditions Remain Same for Most of N.C.

Raleigh, N.C. — A government report released Thursday shows drought woes continue throughout most of North Carolina.

The report stated 86 of the state's 100 counties are in the extreme or exceptional status. Despite the expected arrival of lower temperatures later in the week, officials said the state still needs at least 15 inches of rainfall to ease statewide drought conditions.

Hundreds of towns and cities across the state are currently under voluntary or mandatory water restrictions. Gov. Mike Easley said if we do not get significant rainfall in two weeks, he will be forced to tighten the state's tap even more.

"Once you get in a situation where the fire departments don't have enough water or public safety (tells me) you don't have enough drinking water, then I can step in and do a lot of things," he said.

Easley said North Carolina is at the threshold of being in a state of emergency in terms of the drought. State law gives the governor the power to impose prohibitions and restrictions in all areas affected by a state of emergency.

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Latest Comments

Landscaping my backyard. Desert theme. Now I just need to find some big fans to put out there to blow the tumble weed around to get the full effect. Does anyone know where I can get my hands on a truck load of sand? I have plenty of Catus and Rocks. Might even put a Western Saloon out there in the back. Good thing about this - I won't have to drink and drive.

gopanthers
October 11, 2007 10:29 p.m.

RALEIGH DOODLEBUG - Didn't you get the memo. No drinking water from Mexico. Bad for ya. LOL

gopanthers
October 11, 2007 8:33 p.m.

Let's see....

Hmmm....

We HAD a drought...

Then it rained 0.0000234" inches...

Then I walk out and look at the camels walking by...

Yep, we still have a drought!

Michael Kenyon
October 11, 2007 5:29 p.m.

So on to the next step in conserving; bathing once per month; brush teeth; once per week; flush once per week. Shaving stop until the drought clears. Keep a sponge with you at all times in case you sweat to soak up that water. Anyone else with some helpful tips?

whatelseisnew
October 11, 2007 4:53 p.m.

Really, I know the drought is serious and water conservation is extremely important (now more then ever) but I truly wonder sometimes just how many back up systems are in place that maybe all or some us don't know about that the Triangle has. That is of course if Falls Lake runs dry (and I truly hope we never get to that point). I just can't comprehend/believe a county "like Wake" running completely dry. Yes I guess it's possible but I just can't get the image out of my head of a Thriller Movie on the Sci Fi Channel.

gopanthers
October 11, 2007 3:46 p.m.