Level I drought declared for all counties in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Office of the State Climatologist and the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, in coordination with the Kentucky Drought Mitigation Team, are issuing a Level 1 drought declaration for the Commonwealth.

According to a blog post of the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet on Monday, a Level 1 Drought is for “moderate to severe drought conditions” that have affected soil moisture and vegetative health.

More here: Agriculture hardest hit by lack of rainfall

The post also says “serious” impacts should be expected, with the most impact being in western and central Kentucky, as well as parts of the Bluegrass region.

In some areas, officials say the drought has impacted agricultural water requirements and increased wildfire risks.

State climatologist and director of the Kentucky Mesonet and Kentucky Climate Center Jerry Brotzge, in coordination with the Kentucky Drought Mitigation Team, said he expects drought conditions to continue, at least in the near future, the post says.

“Looking ahead, seasonal forecasts offer a mixed bag for Kentucky,” Brotzge said. “The early October forecast from NOAA predicts below-normal precipitation for all of Kentucky, whereas the 3-month fall outlook forecasts equal chances for above-or below-normal precipitation.”

To learn more about drought conditions, click here.