With substantial rainfall in the last couple of weeks, the drought situation has improved in north Alabama and southern Tennessee. But we're still not in the clear yet, and it won't take much of a hot, dry spell for conditions to worsen again. Here's the latest look at Alabama:
While much of the area is still considered to be in a Moderate Drought, that's a big improvement from earlier in the month when some areas were in Severe Drought conditions. Substantial rainfall at mid-month and a break in the triple digit heat are the reasons conditions have improved. Here's where we stand with rainfall right now:
For Huntsville:
Since July 1st: 6.07" (2.72" above average)
Since June 1st: 7.50" (.14" below average)
Since Jan. 1st: 28.14" (3.87" below average)
For Muscle Shoals:
Since July 1st: 5.99" (3.61" above average)
Since June 1st: 7.50" (.87" below average)
Since Jan. 1st: 25.19" (6.68" below average)
The National picture, however, continues to get worse. Here's the drought this week:
Compared to last week:
80% of the contiguous United States is suffering from some degree of drought. 45% of the country is in Severe Drought or worse. Due to the current drought, the USDA predicts food prices will rise 3-4% in 2013.
Jeff Castle
WAFF 48 Storm Team
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