NORTH CAROLINA — While North Carolina has seen storms in several areas recently, meteorologists say completely wiping out the drought in one month would require most of the state to receive over 10 inches of rain, with some areas needing even more. Numbers climb higher when spread out over two or more months, and forecasters say it remains highly unlikely this much rain would fall within a single month at this point.
Most of the State Needs 10 to 15 Inches to End Drought in a Month
The bulk of North Carolina, including Charlotte, Raleigh, Asheville and Fayetteville, would need between 10 and 15 inches of rain within one month to fully erase the current drought. This figure reflects the widespread nature of the dry conditions affecting the state.
Communities across the western mountains, Piedmont and much of the coastal plain fall within this 10 to 15 inch requirement.
A Narrow Band Needs 15 to 20 Inches for Full Drought Recovery
A narrower band stretching from the northern Piedmont near Mount Airy and Roxboro through Durham, Wilson and Greenville up toward Elizabeth City requires an even higher total of 15 to 20 inches of rain in one month. This zone represents some of the hardest-hit areas within the state’s ongoing drought.
Rainfall Data Reflects Some Progress but a Long Way to Go
The rainfall map, based on the latest data as of 4 p.m. July 9th, is not exact, since some areas have seen more storms than others due to typical hit-or-miss summer rainfall patterns. Forecasters note the state has made some progress but still has a long way to go, and any additional rain this weekend will be welcomed.
Meteorologists emphasize the drought is best addressed through steady rainfall over time rather than all at once. Stay with NapervilleLocal.com for the latest weather updates and local forecast coverage.…