Shore comes back under Drought Watch conditions according to DEQ

The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), in coordination with the Virginia Drought Monitoring Task Force, has expanded its drought watch advisory to include 44 counties across the Commonwealth—among them, Accomack and Northampton on the Eastern Shore.

Despite heavy rains in March lifting the advisories for the Eastern Shore, April yielded drier conditions. The advisory, issued Thursday, is a precautionary measure intended to help communities prepare for the possibility of prolonged dry conditions. While not a drought declaration, a drought watch signals increasing concern over water supply and environmental stress.

Groundwater levels and stream flows are showing signs of decline in various regions of the state, with the Northern Neck, Middle Peninsula, and Roanoke River Basin experiencing notable drops. Agricultural impacts have already been observed in the Northern Shenandoah Valley and Roanoke Basin, particularly with rye crops and the delayed planting of no-till corn and soybeans.

Forecasts over the next two weeks suggest below-average rainfall and higher-than-normal temperatures statewide. Despite these conditions, major water supply reservoirs remain at typical storage levels.

DEQ is actively working with local governments, waterworks, and major water users to ensure conservation and drought response plans are in place and followed. Residents across Accomack and Northampton counties are urged to voluntarily conserve water by reducing nonessential use, checking for leaks, and staying informed about evolving drought conditions.

For updates on the drought status and guidance on how to protect local water supplies, visit the DEQ website at www.DEQ.Virginia.gov.