Parts of Central NC upgraded to exceptional drought after days without measurable rainfall

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- After 16 days straight with no measurable rainfall, exceptional drought conditions are now found in parts of Central North Carolina, including a portion of the Triangle.

The last time RDU International Airport had more than a trace of rain was back on May 25. These bone-dry conditions have exacerbated the drought.

This is the worst drought this part of the state has seen since 2008.

Reservoirs are running well below full pool. Falls Lake, the primary water source for the city of Raleigh, is down 5 feet. Durham says its lakes are also down.

Raleigh, Durham and other communities across Central NC have implemented water restrictions.

Although there are rain and storm chances over the next 7 days, it will not be a soaking rain. Furthermore, the hot conditions we expect over the next several days can accelerate the rate at which the ground dries out.

To end the drought, we would need 20 to 25 inches of rain over the span of three months.

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