Philadelphia, PA — According to the latest update from the U.S. Drought Monitor, more than 1.9 million Pennsylvania residents are currently living in drought-designated areas, marking a staggering 123.5% increase since last week. The monitor is compiled by the National Drought Mitigation Center, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and NOAA.
Southeastern Pennsylvania Mostly Escapes Official Drought
While many regions are experiencing worsening conditions, southeastern Pennsylvania has largely avoided an official drought label. Instead, portions of the region are being classified as “abnormally dry.” Across the border in Mercer County, New Jersey, some areas are already in moderate drought.
Maps from Drought.gov illustrate the spread of abnormally dry conditions across Berks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties.
“Conditions have worsened quickly across much of Pennsylvania, with some areas recording less than half of normal precipitation levels this month,” experts noted in the U.S. Drought Monitor update.
Rainfall Totals Well Below Average
September has been especially dry across the state:
- Philadelphia International Airport: Just 1 inch of rain recorded so far, compared to a normal 4.4 inches.
- Reading: Between 2.1 inches recorded this month, while normal September totals range from 3.5 to 3.8 inches.
These below-average totals are contributing to expanding drought conditions, particularly in eastern and central Pennsylvania.
Short-Term Weather Outlook
The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts some relief in the form of scattered showers and storms this week, but amounts are not expected to erase the rainfall deficit.
- Tuesday: Chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4 p.m. High near 85°F. Rainfall up to 0.25 inches possible.
- Tuesday Night: Showers and storms likely before 11 p.m., then mostly cloudy. Low around 65°F. Rainfall 0.25 inches possible.
- Wednesday: Chance of showers in the afternoon. High near 81°F.
- Wednesday Night: Showers likely, possibly a thunderstorm after 2 a.m. Low near 66°F. Rainfall up to 0.25 inches.
- Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. High near 79°F. Rainfall up to 0.75 inches.
- Thursday Night: Heavy rain possible, with totals between 1–2 inches. Low near 66°F.
- Friday: Showers possible. High near 80°F.
A Widening Concern
The rapid spread of drought conditions highlights how quickly weather patterns can shift. Officials warn that even with upcoming rain, the precipitation deficit remains large for the month and will take more sustained rainfall to reverse.
Farmers, water suppliers, and residents across Pennsylvania are now closely watching the forecasts as the dry stretch puts added stress on crops and local water supplies.
What are your thoughts on the growing drought problem in Pennsylvania? Share your views in the comments below.
