FIRST ALERT: Drought Quickly Worsening and Expanding Across the Region

Expanding Drought Conditions in Myrtle Beach, SC

Severe drought conditions are rapidly escalating and expanding across the Carolinas, causing severe concern. The most recent update from the US Drought Monitor shows that moderate and severe drought conditions continue to worsen at an alarming rate. Parts of South Carolina that are hardest hit include the Grand Strand and Pee Dee regions.

A Sharp Increase in Drought-impacted Areas

Unfortunate statistics show that within the last week of June, 41% of South Carolina was in moderate drought conditions, and a scant .48% of the state was in severe drought. Yet, the most recent update is causing alarm. At present, moderate drought now affects 71% of South Carolina, a 30% increase in just a week.

Adding to the growing concern, the report finds that 17% of South Carolina is now in severe drought, with the most significant part of this category engulfing much of Horry County and most of the Pee Dee region.

Substantial Rainfall Yet Not Enough to Reverse Drying Trend

Heavy rainfall over the last seven days in the Southeast was sporadic and insufficient to reverse the impending disaster in most parts of the Carolinas. Even in areas where substantial rainfall was recorded, the drought indicators did not respond well enough to halt the drought’s advancement. Despite near to below normal weekly rainfall, stream flows and soil moisture conditions continue to deteriorate in many areas, resulting in further degradations.

Impacted Regions

Regions most impacted include parts of the Tennessee Valley, the Carolinas, the northern Gulf Coast States, and the central and southern Appalachians. As records show, these regions have only experienced trivial amounts of rainfall, hardly more than a trace, since the beginning of June.

Understanding Drought and Its Implications

It’s no secret: drought is a part and parcel of climate. However, due to its slow-moving nature, the severity and potential damage caused by droughts are often underestimated. The losses from a prolonged drought can match that of hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters. Drought affects agriculture, tax water supplies, energy production, public health, and wildlife, and additionally, it fuels wildfires.

Fortunately, vast urban water systems possess diverse supplies, keeping water flowing during both wet and dry periods. Regardless, these ongoing drought conditions are a reminder that extreme weather events and the climate crisis have far-reaching and devastating impacts.

Looking Forward

Moving forward, the grim forecast highlights minimal rain chances over the next seven days, which indicates that the drought conditions are expected to continue in the region. As such, water conservation measures and relevant preparations are ripe for implementation at this time. Everyone in the affected areas is encouraged to save water, follow all relevant guidelines, and make sustainable choices to help the region recover from the ongoing crisis.