95% of Alabama experiencing moderate to extreme drought

The drought of 2023 has now hit 95% of Alabama, , with more than half the state (58.4%) geographically experiencing severe and extreme drought, according to Alabama Drought Reach.

How long will Alabama’s drought continue?

According to the National Weather Service Birmingham Office, we should not expect relief from the drought over the next few weeks.

“Looking at our short-range forecast, we’re not expecting any significant rainfall. The drought is likely going to persist through the next week to two weeks.”

~ Nathan Owen, Meteorologist at the National Weather Service, Birmingham Office

Impacts from Alabama’s drought

Wondering what impacts the drought is having on the state? Owen listed these things:

• Streamflows in creeks and rivers are below average, and it’s expected to worsen for agricultural interests.
• Soil moisture has continued to decrease over the last 14 days.
• Crop moistures in general have remained significantly dry. 
• All the state of Alabama is under fire alert 

Drought causing wildfires statewide

On October 25, the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) re-issued a Fire Alert for all 67 counties in the state. 

• In the 32 northern counties (roughly north of Interstate 20), no burn permits are issued. 
• In the 35 southern counties (south of Interstate 20), certified prescribed burn managers will have the option to obtain a one-day burn permit. 

The alert was implemented after the Commission and volunteer fire departments fought 111 wildfires the week of October 25th, burning 1881 acres statewide.

Will Alabama get rain soon?

Owen told The Bama Buzz rain may be coming in a few weeks.

“Toward late November and December, the Climate Prediction Center is indicating there may be some increased rainfall incidences, and our rainfall could be a little above normal for that time of year.” 

~ Nathan Owen, National Weather Service, Birmingham Office

Let’s hope that particular prediction pans out.

How has the drought impacted you? Is your local stream drying up or are you seeing more wildfires? Tell us what you are facing on social media by tagging us at @thebamabuzz