The South Carolina Drought Response Committee has declared all South Carolina counties are experiencing drought.
This development comes after the U.S. Drought monitor showed most—but not all—of the state has been experiencing moderate to extreme drought conditions. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) reports its committee received reports of record-low streamflows, increased wildfire risk, and growing concern among farmers regarding current planting conditions and outlook for the upcoming growing season.
In its announcement, SCDNR cited data from the State Climatology Office regarding rainfall deficits. Statewide precipitation from September through March ranked as the driest in 131 years of record. Since Jan. 1, deficits of up to 7 inches have been reported from the mountains to the coast.
SCDNR reported the Drought Response Committee heard concerns from state agriculture leaders during a Thursday meeting. Those reports, the department said, ranged from issues from low irrigation ponds and pastures not growing to farmers having to irrigate just to get crops to germinate. Livestock forages have also been stunted.
SCDNR officials say the declaration does not require any mandatory action by public water systems or the public, but all water systems should take the opportunity to review their local drought plans and ordinances and where needed implement accordingly.
The Drought Response Committee will reconvene on Thursday, May 14.
