05/04/2026
We are unfortunately in this narrow red stretch of extreme drought. Experts are saying we need 11+ inches of rain to return to normal moisture levels.
Rain is in the forecast for this Wednesday and Thursday - join us in praying for steady, soaking rain 🌧️
You have probably heard that Virginia is experiencing drought. Most of the state is officially classified as experiencing "severe drought" with a small section of south central Virginia in an "extreme drought."
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality monitors our drought conditions and is meeting regularly to assess the situation. You can view their data monitoring groundwater and streamflow here: https://www.deq.virginia.gov/water/water-quantity/drought
From the most recent drought report: "Recent precipitation has been below normal throughout the Commonwealth, especially in the central and southern regions of the state. Soil moisture conditions are much below normal statewide, with significant drying occurring during the past two weeks. Streamflow levels are well below normal, with numerous stream gages in the Dan, New, and Rappahannock River basins setting provisional single-day record lows. Groundwater levels have declined across the Commonwealth and are much below normal in northern areas of the state, along the Blue Ridge Mountains, and around the City of Roanoke. In addition to significantly warmer than normal temperatures, most of the Commonwealth is forecasted to see less than a tenth of an inch of rain in the next week.
DEQ is working with local governments, public water works, and water users in the affected areas to ensure that conservation and drought response plans and ordinances are followed. Localities and residents that are supplied water from the Potomac River should consult the Metropolitan Washington Water Supply and Drought Awareness Response Plan for specific triggers and actions to be taken. All Virginians are encouraged to conserve water supplies by minimizing water use, monitoring drought conditions, and detecting and repairing leaks."
