The Raleigh area is off to its driest start in more than 140 years, as North Carolina’s drought has become extreme across much of the Triangle, according to data from the National Weather Service.
Why it matters: Water restrictions remain in effect to prevent the drinking water supply from dwindling too low.
The latest: The water levels at Falls Lake, one of Raleigh’s main sources of drinking water, stand at 72% of their normal levels, according to the city of Raleigh.
- Restrictions are triggered by anything below 85%, and have been in place since April 20.
Meanwhile, some swimming and boating spots are getting too dry for people to access.
- Last week, Durham Parks and Recreation closed Lake Michie Park and Marina “until water rises to a safe level.”
By the numbers: The Raleigh area has gotten 8.32 inches of rain this year, according to Laura Helock, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Raleigh office.
- That is well below the 30-year normal of 18.26 inches for the area.
Threat level: A rainfall station at Raleigh-Durham International Airport is reporting the driest start to the year in more than 140 years, according to the National Weather Service…