Thunderstorms deliver welcome drought relief to Eastern Shore

Two rounds of thunderstorms delivered welcome drought relief to the Eastern Shore this week, dropping between 2 to 3 inches of rain in many locations and providing much-needed moisture for crops, lawns, and gardens.

The rainfall Monday night and Tuesday afternoon arrived at a critical time, providing beneficial moisture for field crops, lawns, gardens, and other vegetation stressed by ongoing dry conditions.

The rain arrived after the National Weather Service reported a one-category deterioration in drought conditions across portions of Accomack County and northern Northampton County in its June 11 drought update. The Weather Service issues updated drought assessments about once a month, with the next report expected in early July.

While the rain helped ease drought conditions locally, additional rainfall will likely be needed to fully replenish soil moisture and water supplies across the region.