Blacksburg, Va. – Drought conditions are tightening their grip on southwest Virginia, where several counties east of the Blue Ridge are now seeing less than half their usual rainfall totals for this time of year.
According to the National Weather Service in Blacksburg, precipitation over the past 60 days has dipped well below normal—falling under 50% in key areas like Lynchburg, Danville, and parts of the Roanoke Valley. The U.S. Drought Monitor report released April 29 shows an expanding zone of moderate drought along and east of the Blue Ridge, while much of the remaining region is classified as abnormally dry.
In Montgomery, Franklin, and Pittsylvania counties, the prolonged dry spell is beginning to stress crops, lawns, and water supplies. Although needed rain is forecast for Saturday, the NWS says it will be short-lived, with drier conditions quickly returning by early next week.
Residents are encouraged to conserve water, delay outdoor burning, and monitor local advisories. Those relying on well water or rain-fed agriculture should take precautions now, as the next two weeks are expected to bring limited relief.
Drought conditions will be reassessed May 6, but no major pattern shifts are expected before mid-month.
