Drought Eases Statewide

Raleigh, N.C. — A rainy week has dramatically improved drought conditions across North Carolina, according to a report issued Thursday.

The weekly report by the state Drought Management Advisory Council shows 12 counties near Charlotte and in the western tip of the state are the only areas still experiencing extreme drought conditions.

A week ago, 45 of the state's 100 counties were experiencing extreme drought conditions, including all of the Triangle. Fifty counties, including the Triangle, are now under severe drought, according to the report.

Eighteen counties, including Cumberland, are in moderate drought conditions, and 20 counties along the coastal plain are listed as being abnormally dry. A week ago, only Carteret, Dare and New Hanover counties were abnormally dry.

Several weather systems dumped an inch or more of rain across the Piedmont last week – more than 1.25 inches has been recorded at Raleigh-Durham International Airport since April 1 – replenishing many reservoirs and prompting officials in Raleigh and other area cities and towns to relax water restrictions.

WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner said another system could bring more rain to the region on Saturday afternoon.