State drought conditions improve, Brunswick County remains in severe condition

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Recent rainfall has improved drought conditions across much of North Carolina, but most of the state remains in moderate to severe drought, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report released Thursday.

State officials say Brunswick County continues to experience the most severe drought conditions in North Carolina, despite rainfall that has helped ease drought across parts of the Coastal Plain.

The report, which reflects conditions from July 28 through Aug. 4, shows eastern North Carolina received more than 2 inches of rain in some areas. However, many reservoirs and groundwater supplies remain below normal after nearly a year of below-average rainfall from August 2025 through June 2026.

Officials say streamflows have improved in many parts of the state, but several reservoirs, including Falls Lake, Lake Norman and Lake Wylie, remain below target levels. Jordan Lake and W. Kerr Scott Reservoir have returned to normal.

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality continues to encourage residents to conserve water, noting that hotter temperatures and increased water demand are expected through at least the next month.

Residents are encouraged to check with their local water provider for any water use restrictions and follow conservation measures, including limiting outdoor watering, repairing leaks and running full loads of laundry and dishes.