CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Portions of West Virginia are now facing severe drought conditions, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor update released Thursday morning.
The National Weather Service in Charleston reports that parts of northeastern West Virginia are experiencing D2 (severe) drought, shown in orange on the latest map—a level that can lead to crop damage, water shortages, and elevated fire danger.
Moderate drought (D1) is affecting areas of northeast Kentucky, southeast Ohio, and much of central, eastern, and western West Virginia, while abnormally dry conditions (D0) persist in northern and southern West Virginia and parts of southeast Ohio.
As of September 9, more than 65% of the Charleston weather region is classified as abnormally dry or worse. Just three months ago, no areas were listed in drought, underscoring how quickly conditions have intensified.
Officials urge residents to conserve water, remain mindful of fire risks, and stay informed as conditions could worsen if meaningful rainfall fails to materialize.
The U.S. Drought Monitor updates every Thursday at 8:30 a.m. ET and is widely used by farmers, emergency managers, and government agencies to track and respond to drought impacts.
