Hall, surrounding counties get first touch of drought for the summer

For the first time this summer, drought conditions have made their way into the North Georgia region.

 

Thursday's map from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows a swath of the area, including most of Hall County, impacted by abnormally dry conditions. That's the lowest level of drought recorded by national officials, but it still means planting can be more difficult for farmers and fire risk is elevated.  

 

AccessWDUN meteorologist John Wetherbee said better chances of rainfall on Thursday and Friday could certainly help to ease dry conditions.

 

"And, then we'll see some tropical influence as [Tropical Storm Isaias] goes by the Georgia coast, so this is not a big threat," Wetherbee said. "Still, abnormally dry is something of a concern."

 

The July 30 map shows almost 53% of the state impacted by abnormally dry conditions and just under two-percent of the state impacted by moderate drought. Three months ago, 100% of Georgia was drought free.