Raleigh, North Carolina – Rainfall deficits exceeding 4 inches since December are prolonging drought conditions along the Interstate 40 corridor.
According to the National Weather Service Eastern Region, much of the eastern United States remains under moderate to extreme drought despite several recent weather systems. Data through Feb. 10 shows many cities have recorded below-normal precipitation since Dec. 1, 2025.
Raleigh has recorded 3.48 inches of precipitation since Dec. 1, resulting in a 4.56-inch deficit. Charlotte shows a 5.06-inch shortfall, while Asheville is down 4.57 inches over the same period. Greer, South Carolina, reports one of the larger deficits at 6.17 inches.
Farther north, Boston is running 4.22 inches below normal, Baltimore (BWI) is down 3.75 inches, and New York City’s Central Park shows a 3.28-inch deficit. Washington, D.C., remains 2.53 inches below average since early December.
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor indicates extreme drought (D3) across portions of the Carolinas and Georgia, with severe drought conditions extending into parts of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Some areas have experienced ongoing dryness since late summer.
While recent snowstorms have provided temporary moisture in cities such as Boston and Charlotte, officials say overall winter precipitation has remained below seasonal averages.
Drivers along I-40, I-85, I-95, and I-90 may notice lower stream levels and dry roadside vegetation in affected regions.
Farmers, landscapers, and water managers continue to monitor soil moisture and reservoir levels closely.
Residents are encouraged to conserve water and stay informed as drought conditions evolve heading into spring.
