North Carolina's drought conditions experienced a significant worsening this week, marking a reversal of the improving trend that had been observed across the state since late May. The most recent update from the North Carolina Drought Management Council, published on Thursday, September 17, 2026, details a broad deterioration in drought classifications and an increase in the number of affected counties, impacting both the High Country and other regions across the state.
In the High Country, conditions notably declined for Avery County. This county, which had only two weeks prior achieved the status of being drought-free, has now slipped back into the Abnormally Dry (D0) category. Caldwell County continues to be designated as Abnormally Dry (D0), reflecting persistent dry conditions in that area. Neighboring counties Watauga, Ashe, Alleghany, and Wilkes all remain classified under Moderate Drought (D1). This retention of Moderate Drought status indicates a sustained level of dryness, affecting various local resources and potentially requiring ongoing careful management of water use in these areas.
Statewide, the drought's expansion was evident across multiple categories. The number of counties experiencing Extreme Drought (D3) increased from seven to eight, as Stokes County saw a worsening of its conditions, moving from Severe Drought (D2) to the more critical D3 classification. Furthermore, Severe Drought (D2) expanded its reach, now encompassing 23 counties, an increase from 20 previously. This expansion includes Wake County, which encompasses Raleigh, as it transitioned from Moderate Drought (D1) to the more severe D2 category, indicating a heightened level of water stress and potential impacts on local water supplies and ecosystems.
The widespread deterioration also led to a reduction in the number of counties entirely free from drought conditions. The count of drought-free counties across North Carolina significantly dropped from 17 to 12. This loss of drought-free status was not limited to Avery County; Buncombe County, home to Asheville, along with Madison, Mitchell, and Yancey counties, also reverted to Abnormally Dry (D0) conditions. These counties had previously managed to exit drought classifications, making their return to D0 a clear indication of the recent statewide shift towards drier conditions.
Overall, the weekly update provided by the North Carolina Drought Management Council reveals that 88 counties across the state are now experiencing some level of drought or abnormally dry conditions. This figure marks an increase from 83 counties recorded just two weeks earlier, underscoring the rapid and widespread nature of the worsening conditions. The council’s assessments are based on a comprehensive set of indicators crucial for understanding the true extent and severity of dry periods. These indicators include, but are not limited to, the current streamflow levels in rivers and creeks, the depth of groundwater levels, the quantity of water stored in reservoirs that supply communities, the moisture content present in the soil, and the time of year, which helps contextualize the typical water demands and availability. By considering these various factors, the council is able to provide a holistic view of the state's water situation.
In light of these worsening conditions, residents throughout North Carolina are strongly encouraged by the council to continue engaging in water conservation efforts. Staying informed about local drought conditions is also crucial for adapting to the evolving water situation and ensuring responsible water use during this period of increasing dryness.
