Quick downpours are just not enough.
The state Department of Natural Resources has upgraded the drought status for all of South Carolina.
In a press release July 9, 2024, the DNR said the S.C. Drought Response Committee reported (via conference call) all 46 counties in the state, which had previously been normal – or no drought, received upgraded drought designations. Impacts to crops and livestock producers, rapidly declining streamflows and an elevated number of wildfires helped drive the decision.
Upstate counties, Oconee to Cherokee, received an “incipient” upgrade, which according to SC Legislature indicates “that there is a threat of a drought…”
Since early June, many locations received less than 2.5 inches of rain, 25% of normal.
The committee is closely monitoring conditions statewide and is expected to reconvene on July 24th to reevaluate the drought status. The full press release can be read below.
July 9, 2024
All of South Carolina has been upgraded to some level of …