MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — The greater Eastern Panhandle is in a severe drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
It marks a deterioration of conditions for the easternmost counties, from moderate drought to severe.
The area around Martinsburg has been in drought since September 30th of last year.
In a Severe Drought (D2), potential impacts include the following, according to information from the U.S. Drought Monitor:
Fish kills occur; wildlife move to farms for food
Golf courses conserve water
Producers begin feeding cattle; hay prices are high
Specialty crops are impacted in both yield and fruit size
Trees are brittle and susceptible to insects
Warnings are issued on outdoor burns; air quality is poor
Water quality is poor; groundwater is declining; irrigation ponds are dry; outdoor water restrictions are implemented.
The Eastern Panhandle has struggled with long periods of drought conditions over the past two years.
