Extreme drought returns to central North Carolina, affecting Wake County farmers

Central North Carolina is experiencing a return of extreme drought conditions, including parts of Wake County, according to CBS17 and ABC11 WTVD reports. The drought severity has increased statewide, with over 8% of the area now classified as D3 extreme drought, up from just over 2% last week.

Raleigh-Durham International Airport has not recorded measurable rainfall since October 17, nearly three weeks ago, worsening dry conditions in the region, ABC11 WTVD reported. This dry spell represents the largest coverage of extreme drought in North Carolina since July.

The drought is impacting local agriculture, with Johnston County Extension noting that soils are extremely dry. Some wheat farmers have delayed planting while waiting for rainfall to improve soil conditions, according to ABC11 WTVD.

Forecasts indicate some chances for rain later in the week, including spotty showers on Thursday and scattered storms on Friday, but expected rainfall totals are less than 1 inch. This may provide only short-term relief and is unlikely to significantly improve drought conditions, ABC11 WTVD reported.

The Climate Prediction Center outlook cited by CBS17 suggests that the drought will persist through November with no substantial improvement expected. However, a wetter pattern may develop during the winter months, potentially bringing needed rainfall, though this may take time to establish.